Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Indar Weir, has outlined plans for a range of food and agriculture related initiatives including establishment of a new agency stressing what he sees as the need to diversify the economy beyond the heavy dependence on tourism.
He was speaking as he tabled, in the House of Assembly, the Plant Protection Bill that establishes a National Plant Protection Organisation, headed by a Chief Plant Protection Officer.
Mr. Weir warned of the severe damage to agriculture that can result from pests and diseases when plants are smuggled into the country.
The minister who has previously outlined plans for a major expansion of agriculture output and agri-business argued for a new economic approach.
He went further, insisting that new industries have to be created.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Indar Weir
