Dr Wheatley calls for support of Farmers and Fishers Week 2022

Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Dr Natalio Wheatley has officially opened Farmers and Fishers Week, 2022 and he is calling on the people of the territory to support the activities this week and join the movement to support the farmers and fisherfolks.

In his address last evening, Dr Wheatley noted the celebration will be held under the theme, “Rise- A Time for Action, Inspiration and Impact” and it is guided by the principle that everyone must work together to inspire action and make the greatest impact.

“There is no need for me to emphasise how important it is for Virgin Islanders to be more self-sufficient. It is clear how easily we are affected by what takes place beyond our borders, as we import the majority of what we consume,” Dr Wheatley said.

The Agriculture and Fisheries Minister noted it is clear the territory cannot control or influence outside changes, but efforts must be placed on internal growth while building healthy partnerships with those in the region and internationally.

“Careful investment and support for developing our local farming and fishing industries are necessary to build and further develop a well-structured, resilient and accountable food system in the Virgin Islands,” Dr Wheatley stated.

“As our population increases and our health, social and economic challenges become more complex, we have a responsibility to ensure that everyone is able to access healthy, life-giving food and fishers and farmers are able to build profitable industries that support them and their families, while contributing to our local economy,” the minister continued.

He said it is essential that residents have access to healthy foods as it breeds a healthy Virgin Islands.

Dr Wheatley said people must recognise a healthy and diverse resource base is also essential to the farming and fishing industry.