St Helena : Wage Subsidy for Farmers
Submitted by Saint Helena Herald (Juanita Brock) 11.02.2004 (Article Archived on 25.02.2004)
The new wage subsidy programme for farmers has been in operation for about four months, having been launched by the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department in October of last year.
Wage Subsidy for Farmers
The new wage subsidy programme for farmers has been in operation for about four months, having been launched by the Agriculture and Natural Resources Department in October of last year.
Previously, there were some 40 farmers who were receiving wage subsidy, but under the new programme there are just 23, since a number of farmers no longer qualify for financial assistance, particularly if they are making £8000 or more in a year. However, they are still able to get advice from the department on farming matters.
Wendy Clingham, Chief Agriculture and Natural Resources Officer said that the new programme has not had any negative effect on production. Wendy is particularly pleased that the department is now assisting some farmers who are focusing on salad crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers and lettuce.
The programme ties in well with the Island’s strategic objective, since, in addition to contributing to the development of a sustainable and vibrant economy to the benefit of St Helena, it also contributes to the development of a healthy community.
Peter Constantine, Senior Agricultural Assistant (Farmers Support) is responsible for agricultural sector support including the provision of agricultural subsidies. He said that since the launch of the new programme he has received no complaints from the Island’s farmers. While some farmers are no longer receiving subsidy, no new farmers have asked for financial assistance. Although the programme is in its fourth month, farmers are still able to apply for subsidy and this will be granted if they meet the department’s criteria.
The first phase of the programme is to be reviewed later this year, and in October, phase two will commence with financial assistance for the production of other (non salad) vegetable crops. Fruit farming has not taken off in St Helena but with a financial injection in phase three (year 3) of the programme, it is hoped that it will. In speaking about this phase, Peter said: "I think it is a good opportunity for people to branch into fruit farming". The Department will be advertising fruit farming subsidy nearer the time of implementation.
Public Relations/Information Office
Office of the Chief Secretary
4 February 2004
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