Prime Minister John Briceño is firmly asserting that are not being ignored, revealing that his Cabinet has approved a massive $122 million investment aimed at modernizing the industry. The upgrades are set to include paving sugar roads, improving harvesting techniques, and streamlining financial services, among other enhancements, reports Greater Belize Media.
However, Opposition Leader Tracy Panton is expressing deep skepticism, arguing that farmers have so far only received pledges that have not been fulfilled.
Prime Minister John Briceño defended the plan, noting the government’s commitment to supporting the farmers.
“I think it is important to note that we are also helping the farmers,” he stated. “Under the former Minister of Agriculture, Minister Mai, they initiated a commission of inquiry, which was handled through my office. Based on the findings of that inquiry, around February of this year, I met with Dr. Avila, representatives from all four farmer associations, and officials from the Ministry of Agriculture. My goal was for them to review the recommendations and develop a practical strategy to modernize the industry and ensure that both our farmers and the Belize Sugar Industries (BSI) could remain strong and profitable.”
The Prime Minister concluded that the multi-million dollar proposal was the result of that process:
“So, based on the directions I gave them, and after several months of talks, we presented a document to the Cabinet, and they put forward a total of one hundred and twenty-two million dollars in aid that needs to be made available to the industry.”
