Opposition Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira, is advocating for government to make more substantial investments towards agriculture in Linden and other key areas of Region 10. In a letter published in several sections of the media today, Figueira underscored the necessity of moving beyond infrastructure projects.
He drew attention to the recent government outreach led by Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips in Region Two, where over $1 billion dollars was pledged to boost agriculture, suggesting that this model should be replicated in Linden and other parts of Region 10.
Figueira pointed out that while infrastructure projects such as roads, drains, and recreational facilities like the synthetic track and the rehabilitation of the Mackenzie Sports Club symbolized a commitment by the government to improve physical infrastructure, they did not address the immediate economic hardships faced by residents. He noted that Linden, and Region 10 as a whole, is known for high levels of economic struggle, unemployment, and the burden of a high cost of living, which requires focused interventions that would directly impact the lives and livelihoods of the residents.
“These projects, albeit too slow in progress, symbolizes a commitment to improving the physical infrastructure of the region. However, the real impact on the daily lives of people, the residents, remains minimal,” Figueira penned. He argued that the tangible benefits of infrastructure projects would take time to manifest, whereas the immediate needs of the people, particularly those grappling with high costs of living and unemployment, remain unaddressed.
Moreover, Figueira called for deliberate and intentional investment in agriculture, tailored to the unique needs and challenges of Linden and Region 10. This includes providing subsidies for agricultural inputs such as quality seeds, shade house materials, fertilizers, and equipment, offering training and resources for modern farming techniques, and establishing markets for local produce. Additionally, he said investment should focus on improving infrastructure that supports agriculture, such as roads to access farms and markets, irrigation systems, storage and processing facilities, and transportation and distribution networks.
Figueira also emphasized the importance of engaging local leaders and communities in the planning and implementation of these investments. “Understanding the specific needs, strengths, and potential of local farmers and residents, ensures that the investment is not only effective but also sustainable,” he noted. Community involvement fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, which is vital for the long-term success of any developmental initiative, according to the Member of Parliament.