THE Guyana Rice Producers Association (RPA) has condemned what it described as the “draconian” increase in land rent and other charges for farmers by the Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary/ Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA).

According to a release from the RPA, the increase in some of these charges is in excess of 600 per cent and is being implemented at a time when farmers are getting “low prices for their produce.” The RPA noted that rice farmers in the “project area” are now required to pay $15,000 per acre, as opposed to $3,500 which was the initial price prior to the increase.
“Cattle and other-crops farmers are not spared the wrath of this uncaring Authority and their rent and services charges have also been increased by more than 100% in many instances,” the statement noted.

As such, the RPA is calling on all farmers to resist the increase and show solidarity with the association as they join in the call for the reversal of this decision which was taken allegedly without any consultation with farmers, their association or any other stakeholders.
“The fact that the Minister of Agriculture is equating these increases to ‘three beers’ per day is insulting and demeaning to the farming population and an apology to the farmers is being asked for,” the RPA said.