There is now much talk about improving and increasing Jamaica's farm production. This is admirable, but the fact is that there is a lack of adequate land space. By this, I mean land where farming machines can be utilised to assist farmers.

Currently, the vast majority of farming is done on steep hillsides. Machines cannot be used. Only God knows how people manage footholds on these mountain sides. Politicians talk about farming, but these are small holdings cultivated by back-breaking physical manual labour.

This is why young people are not keen to become involved in agriculture.

The Ministry of Agriculture and, by extension, the Government should now make proper farm lands available to prospective farmers; allocating farming equipment, seeds/seedlings, irrigation facilities and fertilisers in addition to the extension service of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority.

Overseas markets

In addition, overseas markets need to be found. Domestic consumption alone cannot, and will not, be sufficient to support large-scale production which is what should be aimed for.

In the past, schools had gardens where interested youngsters were able to see and grow things. Why is this practice not now widely promoted? My school garden produced vegetables that were used in our school canteen.

What has happened to the 4-H Clubs?

Positive consideration and leadership are needed for realistic farming development to be undertaken. Talk alone won't do.

I am, etc.,

Les Francis

francoash@gmail.com

Mandeville