Dennis gets first-hand look at agri sector

Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis recently visited the Courland Agricultural Development Project, Courland Estate, Black Rock. The project sees 40 farmers developing 40 acres of land with a variety of crops.

Dennis has said development of the island’s agriculture sector will be among his priorities as Chief Secretary. He toured the farms and viewed the crops while chatting informally with the farmers.

Last week Dennis visited Tobagrow and Grazer One Farm and spoke to farmers about their needs and concerns.

The THA has been on a drive to encourage Tobagonians to grow their own food and provide agricultural incentives to farmers.

On Saturday, Dennis visited the Orange Hill Nature Ranch and spoke to Josefa Patience who specialises in yogurts and goat's cheese. He also visited popular goat milk producer Dave Moore of Alpine Farm. His last stop was at Store Bay Local Road where he met Melissa McKenzie and Michael Boxill of Mr Plucker's Ranch.

Dennis told the farmers they could also access the Division of Food Production, Forestry and Fisheries’ farmers incentive programme for assistance.

The assembly also began distributing home gardening kits to Tobagonians early last week.