The Ministry of Agriculture says it’s increasing efforts
to safeguard the industry here from pests and diseases which can affect food supply, natural resources and ecosystems.
It recently held a programme in this regard, in partnership with several US agencies and the Grenada Ports authority.
Through the launch of the ‘Don’t Pack a Pest Programme’
travellers will be able to understand their role concerning the issue relative to the introduction and spread of pests and diseases that affect agricultural crops.
The programme is seen as a unique opportunity to increase the awareness of intra-regional and international travellers about the risks they take in packing and carrying agricultural items.
REPORT:
This programme has supported more than 50 ports of entry where signs and/or videos are displayed in the US and the Caribbean.
Being the 10th country to successfully launch the programme, Grenada’s Minister of State with responsibility for Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and Cooperatives, Senator Adrian Thomas, recalled serving in the Public Service at the Pest Management Unit, at a time when the Agriculture industry was dealing with African Locusts.
He said it will assist Plant Quarantine and Pest Management Officers to safeguard the sector, as they will be able to close the gap on raising awareness on how there can be greater control of the number of pests and diseases transferred at the points of entry.
The Ministry hopes this can assist in safeguarding Grenada, the Caribbean and beyond, since we are all aware that our food security will be challenged if one or more of these pests reach our shores.
