Winfa/Ministry of Agriculture sign MOU

With a recent act passed in Parliament that allows for the dissolution of the St. Vincent Banana Growers’ Association (SVBGA), the Ministry of Agriculture, along with WINFA/Fairtrade, has signed a memorandum of understanding for the provision of goods and services in support of the banana industry, which will ensure its longevity.{{more}}

According to Chief Agricultural Officer Reuben Robertson, the Ministry of Agriculture will set up a Banana Division, which will provide technical services to farmers; have direct responsibility for the application and integration of a pest control system; implement the issuing of licenses, and manage the collection of a levy of $4 per box of bananas exported outside Europe. “We will work together to bring benefits to the farmers and improve their livelihood,” Robertson declared.

In his address, Minister of Agriculture Montgomery Daniel noted that although the banana industry has played a “vital role” in the economic stability of SVG, it has seen a downward trend in the last few years. Current figures show that the banana industry generates approximately $30 million per year, whilst in its heyday, that figure would have been closer to $100 million.

Daniel affirmed that the government is taking action to “ensure the sustainability of the industry at the local level”, and is putting measures in place to secure the production of at least 30,000 tons of bananas on a yearly basis.

Daniel also announced that the National Fairtrade organisation would assume full responsibility of the Growers’ Management System – effective June 7, 2009.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture Allan Alexander declared that the memorandum of understanding marks “another step in the long and challenging transformation of the banana industry…” Chairman of the National Fairtrade Organisation Philemon Allen agreed with this, and expressed that he is pleased to see that progress is being made, despite the many pitfalls. “The way ahead was not easy…”

Minister Daniel also urged young people to get involved in the agriculture industry because without them, the industry will fail to remain sustainable.(JSV)