THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE FACT that developed countries give large financial support to their farmers should not only be seen as helping the farmers but also ensuring that their populace can access food at reasonable prices. This reasonably priced food is also beneficial to consumers in Third World countries such as Jamaica.
The removal of the subsidy is not in the interest of consumers and it is to their severe detriment, as malnutrition and starvation will multiply several folds.
On the other hand, if the developed countries remove their subsidies then government in Third World countries will have to subsidise the goods to their consumers, thereby ending up with Third World countries subsidising farmers in developed countries.
In light of the above, it now becomes absolutely necessary that the local private sector and government should give much help and attention to farmers. No effort should be spared to bring prices of farm inputs to levels prevailing in other countries. All rates, charges and taxes should be removed from farm inputs. Everyone in this country should be called upon to preserve and protect farmlands from degradation, especially by concrete and asphalt encroachment.
It must be borne in mind that our destruction of the farmlands with concrete and asphalt is more devastating to future farming here in Jamaica, than what any subsidy or assistance foreign farmers may receive from their government.
I am, etc.,
MALACHI L. REID
Bonny Gate P.O.
St. Mary
