PHILIPSBURG:— “I believe that focusing on and capitalizing on our ability to farm and grow food locally is essential to food security, rather than continuing to rely heavily on imports,” said Grisha Heyliger-Marten, Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication (TEATT).
The minister visited four farms on a fact-finding mission last week where she met with farmers from Yellow Sage Farm, Arrowroot Farm, Eco St. Maarten Agriculture Research Foundation, and Hillside Plantation Farm.
Min. Grisha Heyliger-Marten said that key to the purpose of visiting the farmers was to observe their operations, listen to their challenges, and understand the obstacles they face in their sector.
“By hearing directly from the farmers, I aim to gather vital information and learn about the industry, seeking their input and suggestions on ways to properly establish the agriculture department that we need to move the sector forward,” Heyliger-Marten said.
“My primary objective is to enhance food security on the island,” the Minister continued. According to her, this will lead to more economic stability, improved health and nutrition, environmental sustainability, resilience, and job creation.
“Recognizing these benefits, I am committed to promoting local farming and reducing dependency on imported foods,” Heyliger-Marten said. She added that, “By focusing on local farming, we can build a sustainable and resilient food system that benefits everyone on the island.”
Home
St. Martin News Network Grisha Engages St. Maarten Farmers in bid to Set Up Functioning Agriculture...
Latest Local News
Social dialogue key to economic and social development, enabling inclusive transitions....
~The new ILO Social Dialogue Report 2024 shows the potential of peak-level social dialogue in promoting decent work in an era of unprecedented change.~To...
Minister of VROMI engages in candid discussion with waste collection companies...
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Patrice Gumbs of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure (VROMI), along with representatives of the Ministry, held a constructive meeting with...
Ministry of VROMI reminds Community to identify plots in Cay Bay...
~Mapping and beautification to begin in 2025.~To read more: https://smn-news.com/index.php/st-maarten-st-martin-news/46600-ministry-of-vromi-reminds-community-to-identify-plots-in-cay-bay-cemetery.html
SXM DOET Empowers Youth with New Volunteerism and Sustainability Initiatives. |...
PHILIPSBURG:--- Every year, St. Maarteners celebrate SXM DOET Weekend, an initiative that started in the Netherlands over 20 years ago, inspiring the Dutch Caribbean...
Disaster Reserve Fund, an initiative of the Steering Committee of the...
PHILIPSBURG: --- The announcement made last week by Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina that he would establish the Disaster Reserve Fund for Housing Projects...
View comments
Hide comments