PM: Agro-processing plant no gimmick

THE Prime Minister hit back at critics who accused him of engaging in projects solely for the purpose of harvesting votes for the August 10 general election.

Speaking at the PNM’s virtual campaign meeting Tuesday night, Dr Rowley said the Moruga Agro-processing plant which was opened earlier that day was government’s investment in rural communities.

He slammed the Opposition for not doing enough in diversifying the economy during their tenure saying his government has done more for farmers and rural communities.

“You would think that government that came out of the agricultural sector, you would have thought those MPs would have done something they could point to say, 'that is what we have done to give agriculture,' a chance to do more in the economy.

“You will hear them say that we just did that for votes but this didn’t happen yesterday or the day before. It took two years to plan, to find the land and to organise," Rowley said. Also speaking at the campaign meeting were San Juan/Barataria candidate Jason Williams and At Joseph candidate Terrence Deyalsingh.

Contacted for comment Agricultural economist Omardath Maharaj said while the facility was a much-needed addition to the local agricultural sector, there was need for a more concerted approach from the government in developing the local agriculture industry which he said had great potential in contributing to the GDP.

"Much groundwork and engagement was forgone over the years, contractors and construction alone cannot be the face and meaning of development in this country.

"Though not privy to government's decision-making processes; it remains that more must be done for agricultural and coastal communities but it can only start through greater consultation, collaboration and co-ordination. This would have allowed us to explore the relatively limited livelihood portfolio available to those of us who are at-risk or vulnerable, dissect and plan strategic interventions to deal with the perennial issues."

Citing his collaboration with the Tableland Pineapple Farmers Association, fishers and other community groups in 2015 to establish a 'Strategic Development Plan', Maharaj said a report was forwarded to the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government but no follow-up was done with the contributors.