Government exploring financing for more agro-parks out west

Agriculture Minister Derrick Kellier, has indicated that the Government intends to explore financing for new agro-parks in Western Jamaica.



Kellier, who was speaking at a Jamaica House press briefing in Montego Bay, St James yesterday, disclosed that the agro-parks are expected to be located in Shettlewood, Hanover; Sunderland in Trelawny; Enfield, Westmoreland; and Seven Rivers in St James.



Meanwhile, he told journalists that to date more than $611 million has been invested in infrastructure, irrigation, roads and packing facilities at the New Forest/Duff House agro-park on the border of St Elizabeth and Manchester.



The agriculture minister further disclosed that some 234 farmers have been employed at the park.



He said 204,273 kilograms of produce, valued at $8 million, including pineapples, vegetables and peppers, have been reaped.



The agro-parks project is part of efforts by the Government to increase agricultural production and reduce imports.



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