Tilipia Hatchery opened
FOOD Production Minister Devant Maharaj yesterday formally commissioned the Aquaculture Hatchery Extension and Training Facility at its spanking new facility which was completed in less than a year at the cost of $1.8 million.
Delivering the feature address at the compound located at the Sugar Cane Feeds (SCF) centre at Pokhor Road, Longdenville in Chaguanas, Maharaj said that the Ministry has already has already begun to make significant inroads in creating market stimulus for increased production and long term development of the tilapia industry.
He told the gathering that based on SFC’s progress reports, talipia sales have more than doubled to an average of over 1,500 lbs monthly. This he attributed to the Food Production Ministry’s tilapia advertising and marketing campaign.
Maharaj added: “Cabinet has already approved the construction of a tilapia processing plant, but the money is yet to come. I know many of you would have like to have the cutting ribbon for the processing plant one time. But, we cannot do everything at the same time. After a decade of neglect in the sector, everything cannot be fixed within three years or so.”
He gave the assurance that SCF would meet with farmers and inform them of the opportunities this initiative brings.
Minister Maharaj highlighted some of the goals in his ministry as set out in the National Food Production Action Plan 2012 – 2015.
“The agricultural sector expanded by 5.1 percent in 2013 from the previous year. Furthermore there was a two percent reduction in the estimated $4 billion food import bill from 2012 to 2013. The food inflation rate also continues to be single digits at 3 percent in September 2013,” he boasted. He was of the view that the Aquaculture Hatchery Training and Extension Facility would go a long way in contributing to the sustainable growth of the agriculture sector and assist in creating a food secure nation.
Acting Project Director at SFC Suresh Benny, in giving remarks said that the building was using a generator for electricity as they are awaiting power from State-owned TTEC.
“We have included various aspects of health and safety to ensure the build conforms to standards and that those working here can feel safe and secure. I would like to extent my appreciation to the staff and all those who worked long and hard beyond the call of duty to put this facility together,” he noted.