More Emphasis on Agricultural Sector

The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries will continue to consolidate the role of the agricultural sector in driving economic growth and prosperity.

This was stated by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, while delivering the 2017-18 Throne Speech in Parliament on February 9.

The Governor-General noted that renewed focus will be placed on irrigation expansion.

“The newly completed $203 million irrigation system in the Ebony Park/Spring Gardens Agro Parks comprising approximately 3,000 acres will enable the full utilisation of all the lands in these two agro parks,” he said.

The agro-park initiative aims to modernise Jamaica’s agricultural sector and contribute to reducing the island’s almost US$1 billion food import bill, while increasing exports and creating jobs.

The Governor-General delivered the Throne Speech under the theme ‘A Firm Foundation for Prosperity’.