My fellow farmers:
THE YEAR 2004 is when we begin to turn the challenges we have faced into positive and practical opportunities.
We have now come to recognise the nature of globalisation, and the importance of producing quality local produce at competitive prices.
We know we must identify our special advantages, and develop the relevant niche markets, while at the same time protect and refine our traditional areas of production.
We also are very cognisant that, as Jamaicans, we must play a more active role in supporting our local producers.
DEVELOP RURAL JAMAICA
The Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) has begun to realistically address these challenges. We must set our priorities and invite all farmers and stakeholders to join us in the thrust towards the development of rural Jamaica.
The JAS has pledged its commitment to the implementation of the following programmes in 2004:
The praedial larceny programme, in which carefully developed plans for the eradication of this plague to farmers will be tackled in a holistic approach for the very first time.
The fundamental necessity of a marketing service to farmer will be implemented, through the Central Marketing Service of the JAS, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and its agencies and the private sector.
We have already begun to address the matter of bringing productivity to the idle lands, by the provision of a 'tractor tillage service' to farmers. This service is presently available to farmers in Portland and St. Mary.
In 2003, November 25 was proclaimed by our Governor-General as 'Eat Jamaica Day'. We consider this to be very important.
On behalf of the Jamaica Agriculture Society, its membership and affiliates, I wish for all Jamaica a prosperous and fulfilling 2004.
NORMAN GRANT (Sen.) President, JAS
