The National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) yesterday received 15 storage cabinets valued at $700,000 from the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB). These cabinets will be used to ensure the safekeeping of pesticides used in the coconut industry.
During a simple handing over ceremony at the PTCCB’s Mon Repos Office, Registrar of the Board, Ms. Treica David said the PTCCB will be working with NAREI to ensure farmers and extension officers have a clear understanding of the requirements by which chemicals should be used and stored across the country.
In this regard, Ms. David pointed out that Monocrotophos is a toxic pesticide restricted only for use in the coconut industry. She said, “And one of the things we’ve worked with NAREI on is to ensure that extension agents understand that these pesticides need to be stored in accordance with the law and given to farmers for the treatment of coconut pests only with relevant records kept, both by the farmer and NAREI and back to storage once they’ve been used.”
During his remarks, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha lauded the initiative as he recalled the many requests he would have received during his outreaches for the use of the pesticide.
Mustapha said great consideration was given to these requests since the government is adamant about tackling suicides caused by the ingestion of pesticides. He gave all assurances however that rigid systems are in place to ensure the safe and sustainable use of these chemicals.
He noted too that the PTCCB will continue to execute its mandate through the holistic and comprehensive management of pesticides and toxic chemicals in Guyana with key support at the national level.
