Dominica has announced EC$1 million support towards food security and national development and reaffirmed its commitment during an equipment handover ceremony, held this week.
Reportedly, 94 farmers were benefitted during the handover ceremony at the DAPEX Facility. Under this initiative, 84 farmers will receive irrigation supplies and 10 will receive beekeeping tools that aims at enhancing crop and honey production across the island.
Minister of Finance – Dr. Irving McIntyre highlighted that these equipment forms part of a long-term strategy to strengthen the local agricultural production and meet the growing food demands. He encouraged beneficiaries to properly maintain the tools as a way of honouring the investment of the Government.
McIntyre said that it is a major investment of significant amount $954,105 by the Government. It is a major investment that expect to maintain and take care of all the equipment that they have received. According to him, it is the best way to show appreciation for a gift and what the government is investing into them.
Finance Minister assured that it is a win-win situation for everybody, whether it is the Agriculture Ministry or the beneficiaries, everyone will be benefitted, and the entire nation will receive the benefits. The government will surely make the funds available and will also supervise its assistance to address the point of view of the food and security.
Dr. McIntyre further emphasised that the role of farmers in supporting the broader infrastructural growth of Dominica includes the new International Airport and the expansion of hotel sector.
He affirmed that their point of view towards food and security is not just limited to the people of Dominica, who live here and eat here. McIntyre stated that soon they will have an International Airport, Marina, Cable Car and new Hotels will open too. And in a couple of years, they are going to be hundreds and thousands of people residing in this country.
McIntyre further explained that Dominica is assisting and giving this assistance so that people can help the growth and development of the country.