Minister of Agriculture Eugene Hamilton has expressed the Government’s commitment to assisting farmers affected by this year’s hurricane season noting that 102 farmers have so far been given assistance through a hurricane relief compensation initiative.
“My Government is working hard to deliver to the people of St Kitts and Nevis,” said Minister Hamilton at a Town Hall Meeting held on November 5. He added that the devastation done to the farms equates to a decrease in the food supply for the federation.
Minister Hamilton stated that as a result of his meeting with the farmers throughout the island of St Kitts post hurricanes Irma and Maria, he saw the need for funds to be allocated towards assisting them in reclaiming their livelihood. He said losses sustained by farmers after the hurricane included death of livestock, broken pens, and loss of plants.
The Minister explained that the Government has allocated EC$300,000 to expedite the recovery efforts in the agriculture and fisheries sector. The funds will go into clearing the roads leading to various farms, assisting the farmers with repurchasing materials and stock, and maintaining their land to start the replanting process.
Funds are distributed following an assessment by officers from the Department of Agriculture who determine the extent of damages at each property and the level of support needed.
