Poultry farmers encouraged to diversify

     Speaking at the inauguaral AGM of the Poultry Farmers Association, Agriculture Minister Collin Mcintyre, encouraged farmers to think seriously about diversification.

Minister of Agriculture Dr. Collin Mcintyre told Poultry farmers at their inaugural AGM that they needed to think seriously about diversification.  The call was issued in light of the many challenges in agriculture brought on by the onset of globalization.  DR. Mcintyre says given what is happening with the region’s agriculture and the uncertain future of bananas,  “farmers need to embrace the opportunity to diversify the poultry industry.”  The Minister identified meat and egg production as key areas of focus for any diversification effort. 
          Dr. Mcintyre also took the opportunity to inform the meeting that government was willing to make available to bonafide farmers, duty-free access on farm equipment. “We cannot give you billions of dollars in your hands,” he said, “[but] we will provide the necessary concessions on processing equipment, vehicles and whatever it takes to get your programme running.”