Banana Production Doubled in Second Half of 2001

Contact: Prime Minister's Press Secretary

December 28, 2001 - There is now solid evidence of a definite recovery in the banana industry in St. Lucia, with a doubling of the production figures in the second half of this year, following a debilitating drought that led to a steep decline in the first halt.

Windward Islands banana production figures for 2001 indicate that in week 31 of the year 2001, 401 tonnes of bananas were produced. However, by week 50, production had more than doubled to 839 tonnes and projections that by January 2002, production in St. Lucia will reach 1,200 tonnes per week.

Prime Mime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony said of the latest production figures: "The steady increase in production and exports in St. Lucia is due both to the tremendous efforts of our farmers and their commitment to the industry, as well as the continuing support of the Government of St. Lucia through various financial interventions, including the cost of inputs support for qualifying farmer."

The new Labour administration has signalled its intention to ensure a continuation of the positive policies of the previous administration since 1997.

Following the December 3, 2001 general elections, Prime Minister Anthony appointed a new Agriculture Minister, the former Head of the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), Senator Calixte George.

The new minister has already indicated that “there will be no quick fixes" for the old and new problems facing agriculture and bananas.

The new minister, apart from meeting with senior ministry officials, has also held an initial meeting with the private banana companies operating on the island, whom he promised to consult on the way forward.

Senator George says he will also work with the companies in reviewing legislation affecting the industry, with early emphasis on revision of Praedal Larceny laws.

The new agriculture minister has undertaken to promote the revolutionizing of agriculture through added emphasis on irrigation and drainage over an initial two-year period, as well as through introduction of appropriate technology in agriculture.

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