In Region Two…
FORMER Rice Producers Association (RPA) Extension Officer Mohamed Khan has disclosed that several millers, in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), who buy paddy from farmers, are giving them cheques that are dishonoured by commercial banks

He said that is a major setback for the planters who toiled under harsh and back-breaking conditions to produce the grains.

Mr. Khan said the farmers need the money to go back to the land but, from all appearances, the amended Rice Factories Act is not protecting them as it should.

“The analysis of rice farmers’ costs indicates that many producers were at least breaking even with their production cost at the current paddy price.

“However, some farmers were not recovering their total costs. Farmers depend on the suppliers and banks to provide them with the necessary agro-inputs and working capital, so they need their payment to offset their expenses in order to get more loans,” he emphasised.

RPA General Secretary, Mr. Dharamkumar Seeraj, in an invited comment, told the Guyana Chronicle he is unaware of the situation but the allegation will be investigated.

However, he confirmed that some Region Two millers have, lately, been issuing post-dated cheques to farmers.