CASTRIES – A new meat processing facility is expected to enhance value, while strengthening linkages between the livestock sector and related sub-sectors in St Lucia.
It also has the potential to enhance the island’s growing livestock industry.
This was announced by Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony during Tuesday’s budget address.
“The facility is expected to operate as a central marketing and processing facility, which will create the marketing network to supply hotels, supermarkets and community based distribution outlets,” Dr Anthony said.
“Those who conceptualised this facility believed that this initiative would enhance value, while strengthening linkages between the livestock sector and other sub-sectors of the economy.”
The success of the facility will depend on a resurgence in livestock rearing, the Prime Minister said.
According to the Minister for Agriculture, Food Production, Fisheries, Co-operatives and Rural Development Alva Jn Baptiste, the facility contains all of the necessary amenities.
“On April 7, the keys to the meat processing facility were handed over to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, signaling the completion of the facility,” he said. “Now, we are waiting for test runs on the equipment to be completed.”
The meat processing facility forms part of the Livestock Development Program. The project will also establish the Beauséjour Agriculture Station as a national centre of excellence, geared towards infrastructure improvements and the breeding of quality livestock. (PR/SAT)
