Undoubtedly, the recent prolonged dry season brought about by the El Nino phenomenon has created havoc for farmers, particularly those involved in rice cultivation and predictably the government moved swiftly to put together a $300M assistance package to help to cushion the adverse impact of the weather.
The government has always demonstrated a commitment to help farmers in times of crisis and distress. In the past it has provided help to farmers whose crops were destroyed by floods and also intervened when farmers had difficulties meeting loan payments to commercial banks.
These crucial interventions are not by accident but rather because this government and other PPP led governments in the past have always recognised the vital importance of the agriculture sector to the national economy and provision of direct and indirect employment for a large number of people.
During 1957-1964 rice production increased by 74% and this was due to the sound agricultural policies that were geared to equip farmers with the necessary production capacity through the provision of duty free concessions on fuel, fertilisers and machinery etc. Coupled with that massive drainage and irrigation works were embarked upon and massive new agricultural lands were opened including Black Bush Polder, MMA etc.
In fact, because of its tremendous emphasis on agriculture the then opposition dubbed the government a “rice” and coolie government.
However, the same opposition party in its 1964 elections manifesto promised “Free cassava and milk, not a soul shall go to bed hungry.” It could have made such a promise because of the success of the PPP’s government successful agricultural programmes.
So the PPP has had a cherished history of emphasis on agriculture which is being continued by the present administration and the announcement of a $23M package for farmers in Essequibo is just another demonstration of its commitment to farmers and the agriculture sector.
However, during his visit to Essequibo recently, Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud made a very pertinent observation with respect to drainage and irrigation when he said: “The management of the system needs to be improved at the level of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils, the Water Users Association and the region.”
This has been a sore point for a long time because in the past there have been many instances of sluice operators and other related personnel neglecting their duties resulting in flooding and damaging of agricultural crops and livestock etc.
The Minister is therefore quite correct when he called for improved management at the lower ends of drainage and irrigation systems and the personnel at this level have to be mindful of the very important responsibilities bestowed upon them. They must understand that they actually have the bread and butter of farmers in their hands.