Opposition calls for gov't to address challenges facing poultry industry

By Nakinskie Robinson  

 

Opposition Spokesperson on Agriculture Dr. Dayton Campbell is calling for the government to immediately address several challenges affecting the poultry industry, which have been compounded by the effects of Hurricane Beryl.

 

Dr. Campbell says despite early calls for support, poultry farmers, particularly egg producers, have received little to no assistance, resulting in significant disruptions in production and supply.  

 

"The government was alerted to this issue as early as July, when farmers raised concerns about the severe damage caused by Beryl. Yet, to this day, we are hearing from the Jamaica Egg Farmers Association that they have not received any promised support. This is unacceptable. We demand a transparent explanation and the concrete plan of action to ensure that our farmers get the help they need without further delay," he insisted. 

 

In early September, Mark Campbell, President of the Jamaica Egg Farmers Association, told Radio Jamaica News that chickens were not laying eggs at their usual pace, resulting in a near 30 per cent dip in the country's overall egg production.

 

Dr. Campbell contends that while the government has allocated more than $900 million to assist farmers recovering from Beryl, egg farmers are yet to benefit.

 

In the meantime, the opposition spokesperson said he is deeply concerned about reports from consumers and restaurant operators regarding a shortage of chicken.

 

He said some businesses have been forced to increase the prices of chicken meals due to the rising cost of chicken, which has surged by nearly $60 per pound in recent weeks.

 

Dr. Campbell said operators have also reported difficulty in sourcing baby chicks, further compounding the situation.

 

He said while Agriculture Minister Floyd Green has acknowledged the reduced supply, the government must move beyond what he terms "assessments and meetings" which he said will only prolong the pain felt by farmers and the wider population.  

 

"We urge the government to act swiftly by providing direct support to our poultry farmers and implementing measures to stabilise chicken production. This should include facilitating access to affordable inputs like feed and chicks, accelerating recovery efforts post-Beryl and putting contingency plans in place for future disruption. We need urgent solutions. We call on the Minister of Agriculture to immediately outline a clear recovery plan for the poultry sector, one that ensures our farmers are supported and that consumers can access affordable, locally produced chicken and eggs."