The idea to establish a Permanent Parliament Committee for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Husbandry (see Monday paper) has merit. The past years have shown the potential impact of disasters, epidemics as well as war on global supply chains and consumer prices.
The more of its own food any country produces obviously the better, to reduce vulnerability, enhance sustainability, keep earnings and save on foreign exchange. That’s very much the case for an island depending on shipments from abroad.
At the same time, continuity remains crucial, so to truly promote local farming – for example, with import restrictions as done elsewhere – a reliable supply and service must be ensured. After all, especially a tourist destination can ill afford to run out of mainstay goods.
It’s high time to invest in the primary sector, not just money but also attention, time and other resources including cheaper yet clean water for irrigation purposes. A legislative committee could certainly help keep the pressure on government to intensify efforts in this regard.
But politicians don’t require parliamentary meetings to advocate and demonstrate increased support for home-grown produce starting within their own parties, particularly ahead of elections. They simply need to hold each other accountable.
