October 21, 2023:- The car park of the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA) in San Fernando, was transformed into a market with farmers and agroprocessors exhibiting and selling their products, as the World Food Day National Committee of Trinidad and Tobago (WFDNCTT) held its Food Heroes Exhibition in commemoration of World Food Day 2023 earlier today.  This, the second Food Heroes Exhibition, was held under the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) World Food Day Theme: ‘Water is Food, Water is Life – Leave no one behind’.

This Exhibition, according to Chairperson of the WFDNCTT, Ms. Teresa Rosemond, aimed to “give recognition to persons the Committee has termed ‘Food Heroes’, who sustainably plant, harvest, produce, develop, and transport food to ensure that we, the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago have access to affordable, safe and nutritious food”.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Rosemond noted that the World Food Day Theme “not only highlights the importance of sustainable practices, but brings to the forefront, issues of climate change, water scarcity and food shortages”. She also highlighted that “our farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs play a vital role in maintaining our food supply.  By supporting them, we can create jobs, stimulate economic growth and reduce our Food Import Bill.”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, Mr. Farook Hosein delivered the feature address on behalf of the Honourable Minister Kazim Hosein, stating that the celebration of World Food Day “serves as a testament to the collective action we are taking to address the challenges of hunger, malnutrition and poverty; and also as a global platform to raise awareness of the gravity of these issues and emphasize the need for effective agricultural policies to be implemented by governments worldwide.”

Mr. Hosein further pointed out that “the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, is committed to supporting and fostering sustainable agricultural practices; and recognizes that our food heroes are the backbone of our agricultural sector and their contributions are invaluable.”

The Permanent Secretary also thanked the WFDNCTT, for organizing the event and providing the opportunity to recognize and appreciate the efforts of our food heroes; and also emphasized that “through this exhibition, we aim to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture in our country.” He added: “It is a platform to raise awareness of the importance of local food production, encourage innovation, and promote the consumption of healthy and nutritious meals.”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service, Mr. Narine Charran; FAO Representative, Ms. Crystal Daysee, along with members of the WFDNCTT, toured the booths and supported the exhibitors, as well as the NAMDEVCO farmers who were also at the event.

 

About the World Food Day National Committee of Trinidad and Tobago (WFDNCTT):

The World Food Day National Committee of Trinidad and Tobago (WFDNCTT) operates under the administrative remit of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries. It aims to promote awareness and action toward eradicating hunger, ensuring food security, and supporting sustainable agriculture practices in Trinidad and Tobago. The committee works closely with various stakeholders to organize events and initiatives that highlight the importance of food production, nutrition, and environmental conservation.

October 18th, 2023:-  “The time has come for us to take a conscientious step towards preserving our environment, conserving water and ensuring sustainable food production for the future.” So said the Chairman of the World Food Day National Committee of Trinidad and Tobago (WFDNCTT), Ms. Teresa Rosemond, as she addressed the launch of the World Food Day Exhibition in Shawpark, Tobago on Wednesday 18th October, 2023. In her address at the event, Ms. Rosemond emphasized the critical issues of food security and water scarcity that our global community faces today.

She stressed the significance of sustainable agricultural practices in ensuring food security and water availability. She stated: “By planting a tree, the WFDNCTT symbolically took another step towards preserving our environment, conserving water and ensuring sustainable food production for the future.”

Ms. Rosemond also emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in addressing food security challenges. She said: “Our small-scale farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs play a vital role in maintaining our food supply. By supporting them, we can create jobs, stimulate economic growth and reduce our Food Import Bill.”

The exhibition served as a platform to recognize and celebrate individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the agricultural sector. Ms. Rosemond highlighted the significance of these “Food Heroes” and their impact on the community, stating: “Today’s Grand Agricultural Exhibition aids in raising awareness of the significance of agriculture and food production and also highlights who we, the WFDNCTT refer to as ‘Food Heroes’ – those individuals who sustainably plant, produce, process, and transport food, to ensure that our citizens have access to affordable and nutritious food.”

Looking ahead, Ms. Rosemond invited attendees to the WFDNCTT’s second Food Heroes Exhibition which takes place on Saturday 21st October, 2023, at the compound of the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts in San Fernando. She stated: “Our exhibition, much like yours, is a platform to recognize and celebrate those individuals who play a crucial role in the development of our agricultural sector. Their efforts remind us that we are not alone in our collective pursuit towards food security.”

Ms. Rosemond concluded her address with a call for collaboration and innovation to address food security challenges. She stated: “Our Government, business sector, non-governmental organizations, and citizens must come together to find innovative solutions to food security issues. Through our schools and communities, we strive to empower individuals to embrace home and community gardening. Our aim is to educate the national community on growing food using small spaces and inspire innovative approaches to agriculture, proving that anyone can participate in sustainable food production, even with limited resources.”

As Trinidad and Tobago work towards sustainable agriculture and food security, the WFDNCTT remains committed to empowering individuals, engaging communities, and inspiring citizens to contribute to the nation’s food security agenda.

 

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Photo Caption:- Chair of the World Food Day National Committee of Trinidad and Tobago, Ms. Teresa Rosemond (left) presents a Jack Fruit publication to the Secretary for Food Security, Natural Resources, the Environment and Sustainable Development (Tobago House of Assembly), Assemblyman Nathisha Charles-Pantin (right), following the launch of the World Food Day Exhibition in Shawpark, Tobago on Wednesday 18th October, 2023.

October 16, 2023 – Senator the Honourable Avinash Singh, Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, is warning the population that “without water, life as we know it would not exist, and our food security and sustainability would be gravely impacted.” Senator Singh made his comments while delivering an address at the World Food Day Tree Planting Ceremony at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Port of Spain earlier today.

This event marked a significant milestone in raising awareness about sustainable food systems and the critical role of water in ensuring food security. Alluding to the 2023 theme of World Food Day, Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind, Minister Singh stated that water and food are intertwined, and it is our responsibility to safeguard these resources.

Senator Singh reiterated the urgency of promoting responsible water management and sustainable food production. The Minister revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries has been actively encouraging and assisting farmers/fisherfolk in transitioning their operations to more climate-smart and sustainable practices.

He encouraged farmers and members of the agricultural sector to access grants such as the Agro-Incentive Grant, which explicitly targets those unable to undertake the necessary infrastructural upgrades to make their systems more sustainable. “We hope that grants like these will impact the levels of production as we seek to drive our food import bill downward.”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, Mr. Farook Hosein, also commended the efforts of the World Food Day National Committee and other key participants, stating, “I applaud the dedication of those who remind us of our responsibility to protect our environment, conserve water resources, and ensure that no one goes hungry. Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, to build inclusive food systems and a sustainable future for Trinidad and Tobago.”

The highlight of the event was the ceremonial planting of a new tree, the Jack Fruit, symbolizing hope, growth, and resilience. Each tree planted over the years represents the collective commitment to preserving natural resources and building a sustainable future.

Minister Singh expressed his sincere appreciation to the World Food Day National Committee for their unwavering dedication in organizing the commemoration. He also conveyed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their active participation, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to achieving food security, environmental sustainability, and a brighter future for Trinidad and Tobago.

 

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29th September, 2023:-  The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) is proud to announce a revolutionary step in farmer training courses with the introduction of a new, flexible, online learning model. The Extension Training and Information Services Division (ETISD) within the Ministry has successfully launched two asynchronous courses on its Moodle platform, marking a significant milestone in agricultural education.

 

The official launch took place on Friday 22nd September, 2023, at the Farmer’s Training Centre and was attended by esteemed guests including MALF staff and some 23 graduates of an inaugural asynchronous course in Pepper Sauce Demonstration.

 

“This new, flexible, online learning model represents a transformative shift in how we provide training and support to our farmers,” said Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries. “By embracing technology and offering courses on the Moodle platform, we are empowering farmers to access educational resources at their convenience, enabling them to enhance their skills and contribute to the growth of our agricultural sector.”

 

Mrs. Coomarie Goolabsingh, Permanent Secretary (Ag.) in the MALF, also expressed her enthusiasm for the new initiative, stating, “The introduction of asynchronous courses through the Moodle platform is a testament to our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our farmers. We understand the demands they face, and this flexible learning model allows them to balance their work responsibilities while acquiring valuable knowledge and skills. It is a significant step forward for our Ministry and the agricultural community as a whole.”

 

The Ministry’s ETISD understands the unique challenges and demands faced by farmers. By offering online courses that can be accessed anytime and anywhere, the Ministry has tailored its training services to suit the needs of farmers. This innovative learning model recognizes the importance of respecting farmers’ work schedules and responsibilities while empowering them to acquire new skills and enhance their knowledge in the field of agriculture.

 

The introduction of the Moodle platform has played a pivotal role in this transformation. Its user-friendly interface and interactive features ensure that learners can navigate course content effortlessly, actively participate in discussions, and receive timely feedback from facilitators. The flexible online learning model not only enhances the learning experience but also provides an opportunity for farmers to connect and collaborate with their peers, fostering a supportive and vibrant community.

 

To further expand the reach of this groundbreaking initiative, the MALF will be advertising upcoming asynchronous courses on its website and the ETISD Facebook page. Farmers and agricultural enthusiasts are encouraged to stay informed about these announcements and join the agricultural education revolution today!

 

The Ministry’s online learning model represents a significant milestone in transforming the delivery of farmer training courses. By leveraging technology and embracing modern teaching methodologies, the Ministry is driving innovation within the agricultural sector and the public service as a whole.

 

 

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25th September, 2023:- Trinidad and Tobago was identified by the European Commission as a non-cooperating third country pursuant to provisions of Article 32 of the European Council Regulation (EC) no. 1005/2008 (EC IUU Regulation) establishing a Community system to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing on September 25th, 2023.

The identification was as a result of an evaluation of TTO’s systems and programmes for fisheries management, with focus on combatting Illegal Unreported and Unregulated fishing. The current Fisheries Legislation is more than 100 years old and does not allow Trinidad and Tobago to adequately address its international obligations.

In an attempt to fast track the passage of new modern legislation, a Joint Select Committee of Parliament (JSC) was convened in 2020 to review the bill, completing two rounds of review of all 242 clauses. Due to the substantive changes to the FMB during this process, the amended Bill is now before the Legislative Review Committee of the Cabinet for consideration. Two further meetings of the Legislative Review Committee are scheduled for September 25th, 2023 and September 29th, 2023 to address any final legal considerations before the Bill goes to Cabinet for approval. It is anticipated that Consultations with Stakeholders will follow to advise on how their 700 plus comments were addressed in the Bill after which the Bill will be laid in Parliament.

The Ministry of Agriculture is working towards providing the necessary staffing and resources to implement the Bill once passed.

The EU Commission in its statement has expressed its availability and continued support to Trinidad and Tobago in addressing several areas including: (1) the administrative and legal framework for fisheries management; (2) fisheries monitoring, control and surveillance; (3) cooperation among agencies involved in fisheries management; and (4) cooperation with Third States whose fishing vessels utilize the ports of TTO for the landing and transhipment of fish and fish products. In particular, the establishment and reinforcement of port controls (especially for foreign-flagged fishing vessels) and enhanced monitoring, control and surveillance of all TTO-flagged fishing vessels.

The Ministry of Agriculture Land and Fisheries will continue to collaborate with stakeholders, experts, and international partners to develop and implement comprehensive measures that promote responsible fishing practices, protect marine resources, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our fisheries sector.

 

 

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September 21st, 2023:- The Ministry of Agriculture, Land, and Fisheries (MALF) has deployed its resources to facilitate irrigation for 500-acres of recently planted rice at the Caroni Rice Project. The Caroni Rice Project is situated on former Caroni 1975 Ltd’s Rice Production Lands in Caroni and comprises approximately 800 acres of land ideally suited for lowland flooded rice production. Approximately 20 rice farmers currently cultivate close to 600 acres of rice in the area.

Over the last 24 hours, MALF’s Engineering Unit assisted in bringing much-needed relief to farmers cultivating rice in the project. Director (Ag.) of MALF’s Engineering Unit, Rodney Ramkeessoon, says the interventions were necessary and would bring much-needed relief to the Caroni rice project. “Technical Officers from the Ministry met with the farmers earlier this week. We understood the urgency of the matter and mobilized resources to implement solutions.”

Ramkeessoon described the situation as fluid and said his Unit would continue to monitor the situation and adjustments would be made accordingly. “The equipment mobilized will stay on site for two weeks, and we will continue to monitor the impact of the measures implemented. Field conditions will be monitored and adjustments made accordingly based on the stage of rice growth coupled with the prevailing weather conditions.”

Richard Singh, one of the rice farmers cultivating rice on lands at the project, thanked the Ministry for its quick response, saying it was much needed. “The Ministry agreed to assist the farmers, and because of that intervention, you see the equipment on the next side; we now have workers coming to do planting since the Ministry gave us water, we called back all workers.”

Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, thanked all teams involved in the effort and said the Ministry will continue to work with all stakeholders to find a tangible solution during this period.

 

-END-

 

 

September 15th, 2023:- Citizens are hereby notified that the sale of State Game Licenses will commence as of Monday 18^th September 2023. The hunting season officially opens in Trinidad and Tobago from 1^st October 2023 to 29^th February 2024. During the month of March, 2024, the listed Game Species are removed from the schedule and HUNTING is PROHIBITED. All State Game Licences (SGL) are TT$100.00 per Game Specie and there is a limit of three (3) State Game Licences per hunter.   

 

In order to ensure that there are no violations of the Conservation of Wild Life Act (COWA), all hunters are asked to familiarize themselves with (COWA) Chapter 67:01 and to please be aware of the following:

 

1. All State Game Licences (SGL) according to the (COWA) Chapter 67:01, enable hunters/licensees to hunt the game species specified on their respective licence on State Lands and Forest Reserves.
2. All hunting and or possession of Iguana (Iguana iguana) is prohibited during the months of January, February and March. The fine for which is Ten Thousand Dollars (TT$10,000.00). Hunting of the Lizard Species Iguana ends on December 31st, 2023. Similarly, hunting of lizards are NOT permitted within the municipal boundaries of the city of Port of Spain. (Legal notice No. 281 of 2019) and (Regulations (6) (1) (c) and (7) (1A).
3. Persons have until March 31^st, 2024 to dispose of Game Animal carcasses (or any part thereof) from their property and or their possession with the exception of Game animal – Iguanas which must be disposed on or before (midnight) December 31^st, 2023.
4. Holders of State Game Licences purchased for the 2023-2024 Hunting Season must correctly complete and submit the Mandatory Data Return Forms on or before May 31^st, 2024. (Failure to comply may result, on summary conviction of Five Thousand Dollars (TT$5,000.00) per data form).

 

 

ALL first-time hunters should present:

• One form of valid government issued identification, namely National Identification Card, Drivers Permit or Passport.
• A recent utility bill (not older than three (3) months with necessary authorization letter should utility bill be on another person’s name) for verification of address.

 

 

Permits can be obtained at the following Forestry Division Offices in Trinidad and the Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, the Environment and Sustainable Development sales centres (as directed) in Tobago, Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Except on Public Holidays and Weekends.

 

 

STATION	TELEPHONE CONTACT
Forestry Office, Damarie Hill, Sangre Grande	225-3728
Forestry Office, Long Circular Road, St. James	225- 3875
Forestry Office, Pleasantville, San Fernando	225-3777 / 3774 / 3778
District Revenue Office, Chaguanas	671-4773
Forestry Office, Rio Claro	644-2241 / 630-4395
District Revenue Office, Tunapuna	662-2797
Scarborough District Revenue Office (Tobago)	665-5869
Roxborough District Revenue Office (Tobago) (Monday, Wednesday and Friday ONLY)	660-4379

 

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September 11th, 2023:- The Praedial Larceny Squad (PLS) remains resolute in its mission to safeguard the agricultural sector, prosecute offenders and preserve the integrity of Trinidad and Tobago’s food security/food basket. The PLS’ current accomplishments/achievements, ongoing recruitment efforts, infrastructural improvements and collaborative approach with other law enforcement agencies are a testament to its unwavering dedication to combating praedial larceny.

 

From 2020-2022, investigations, raids and activities of the Unit resulted in a 42% conviction rate of offenders for various infractions of the law at the nation’s courts. This Unit continues to be a valuable entity in the law enforcement apparatus of this country.

 

To better address the needs of all stakeholders, the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) has initiated several strategies to bolster and strengthen the unit; some of these strategies include hiring additional staff, upgrading existing facilities, and acquiring and adopting new technology to further enhance effectiveness and efficiency in fulfilling its mission and mandate.

 

Earlier this year, the PLS conducted a rigorous recruitment exercise, receiving over 5,000 applications from individuals eager to contribute to the fight against praedial larceny. These applicants were thoroughly vetted, and 70 successful candidates are currently undergoing an intensive 12-week training facilitated by law enforcement experts at the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS). This additional hire would result in a 200% increase in manpower, thereby bolstering its operational capabilities and expanding its reach across the country. Concurrently, MALF is expected to acquire five new vehicles within the next month; this will improve patrol and response times.

 

Addressing recent claims regarding the closure of the PLS’ South Office, the Ministry would like to clarify that the officers attached to this Unit have been temporarily relocated in order to facilitate refurbishment works. This relocation is part of an ongoing effort to create a state-of-the-art facility that will enhance the Unit’s operational efficiency. Tenders have already been issued for the establishment of a permanent headquarters, ensuring a dedicated and fully equipped space for the Squad to operate.

 

MALF reassures the public that all tools and equipment utilised by the PLS are secured and safeguarded in strict accordance with best practices and the laws of Trinidad and Tobago; to suggest otherwise can only be described as reckless and malicious.

 

The PLS regularly deploys joint mobile patrols in various communities. Collaborating with partner agencies, including the TTPS, Municipal Police, Game Wardens, and the Estate Management & Business Development Co. Ltd. (EMBD), these patrols ensure a visible presence and active monitoring of agricultural areas. The joint patrols serve as a proactive measure to deter potential criminals, respond swiftly to reported incidents, and gather valuable intelligence to support investigations.

 

The Squad also regularly meets with the farming community to foster open dialogue, address concerns, and offer guidance. These meetings serve as valuable platforms where farmers can voice their challenges and receive expert advice on best practices for protecting their properties. The PLS also utilises modern communication tools to facilitate real-time information sharing, quick responses to queries, and the dissemination of essential alerts or updates related to praedial larceny. These digital platforms encourage ongoing dialogue and collaboration, strengthening community bonds and promoting a sense of shared responsibility in combating agricultural theft.

 

END