I WOULD like to take this opportunity to express appreciation on behalf of the farmers and residents of Mahaica to the government, specifically the Ministry of Agriculture, for the support extended to us during and after the flood resulting from La Nina.
To the Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud and his hardworking staff who were with us during the entire ordeal to secure crops and livestock, provide veterinary and other supplies and not forgetting technical advice to care for crops and livestock, I say thank you.
Today, if not all, most farmers have returned to their respective activities with the support of the ministry, which is now winding down its operations as farmers can continue to stand firm in earning a decent lucrative livelihood.
I am making a special effort to share these thoughts, as other destructive and disruptive elements are trying to twist in the various forms, by using the media, what really occurred during the heavy rains and the subsequent support that farmers/residents received.
The government certainly did its part to support farmers and residents, and we are very much grateful and appreciative of this, not only of the support but also for the care and concern that was shown towards farmers/residents.
Meanwhile, as the May/June rains are creeping up on us, there is a hive of activity by the Ministry of Agriculture and its agencies, such as the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority and the Mahaica Mahaicony Agricultural Development Authority to undertake critical works, build higher grounds for animals and secure cultivation area. The rains of today are unpredictable, and all necessary preparations must be continuous to deal with abnormally high rainfall that stresses out drainage capacity.
Once again, we the farmers of Mahaica are appreciative of the concern shown by the government as we work together to develop a brighter future for agriculture and Guyana as a whole for future generations.