PR – It’s been almost five years since Carriacou and Petite Martinique have been without veterinary services based on the islands. However, the services are soon to be made available again.
This is according to Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs & Local Government, Hon. Tevin Andrews, who was addressing a special meeting of farmers. He said not only will a local vet be available but a unit also will be established to ensure livestock farmers get the necessary support.
The Minister is seeking to develop a deeper collaboration and working relationship with farmers on Carriacou and Petite Martinique. One of his first meetings as Minister was with farmers.
The special meeting, which was held at the Carriacou Multipurpose Centre, was attended by close to 75 farmers.
The issue of “leggo” animals has been a vexing problem for years for crop farmers. Minister Andrews, who was reminded that there is what is called “communal pastures”, said there will be further dialogue between livestock farmers and government which should lead to the development of specific legislation and assistance.
Other areas of concerns highlighted during the meeting included the issue of stray dogs, land availability for young farmers and the development of reservoirs to provide for a constant flow of water for farmers.
Minister Andrews, who was supported at the meeting by Senior Agricultural Officer Benson Patrice, said a project is now being developed that would look specifically at addressing the water problem on the island.
He noted that the agriculture industry is a multi-billion one; therefore, he said, the redevelopment of the Limlair Livestock Station is high on the agenda as the Division of Agriculture will be reintroducing the black belly sheep.
The meeting with farmers is one of many that will be held within the coming months.
