DRAINAGE and irrigation, better prices for paddy, and the cost of fertiliser were some of the issues raised by Region Six rice farmers in a meeting with Agriculture Minister Noel Holder on Friday.The meeting was organised by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo’s Special Assistant to the region, Gobin Harbajan, and was held at the Skeldon Estate Training Centre. It was attended by about 120 farmers, who, for the greater part of the meeting,
maintained their cool, but took a swipe at the Rice Producers Association (RPA) for not supporting them as that body should.

Some also complained that millers are paying a flat price for paddy, irrespective of the grade.
Minister Holder assured the gathering of Government’s commitment to addressing the problems in the rice industry and wanting to see the industry succeed. Guyana is currently in talks with several nations, including Mexico, to secure new markets for farmers.

On the issue of fertiliser cost, the minister explained that the Ministry had intended to provide fertiliser at $6000 per bag, and to allow farmers to import their own, which would have brought the price down to $4500. However, before that could have happened, the private importers dropped their prices to $4000 to increase competition.

The minister also urged the farmers to work together to facilitate better water management. He said, “If all farmers plant together, this will aid in water management, rather than one planting now and another next week.”

According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), the farmers expressed disappointment at not being given tax exemptions on vehicles, equipment and materials, and the Agriculture Minister explained that if the Customs officers request a letter from the Ministry, it may be part of their operating protocol.

This, he said, is not necessary in all cases. However, “In the case of a tractor, it can be used for many purposes, so Customs may need proof that you are really a farmer.”

Financing was also discussed, and Minister Holder pointed out that the Ministry of Finance has engaged the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) on the re-establishment of an agricultural bank.

The farmers were also given opportunity to provide suggestions on measures to reduce the cost of production. Among suggestions provided were the need for better farm roads and more lands for cultivation.

The meeting also had in attendance representatives from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), the RPA and top ministry officials.