The Editor, Sir:

Congratulations are in order for the new Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Christopher Tufton.

We expect that his dynamic personality will be reflected both in his vision as well as his approach to the sector.

There are some issues which were already in train before his entry which have both peculiarity and time-sensitivity. He will therefore have to toil through the night when it comes to the foregoing matters, given that he did not have the added advantage of being shadow spokesperson for the sector.

1. Outstanding coffee crop insurance payments

2. The divestment of the sugar factories

3. Making a determination on the banana industry

4. Praedial larceny

5. Agricultural trade regulations; and the World Trade Organisation.

He must have as first order of business to meet with sector leaders and the various commodity associations in order to make himself current. There are also some critical medium issues with which he and his aides must contend, in shaping a strategy in going forward. They include: accessible agricultural credit, organic agriculture, sea island cotton, credible land divestment policies, and creative irrigation solutions for current non-irrigable lands.

Do not focus at the moment on indulging youth in agriculture, rather, just try to get those already involved to stay. When the image of agriculture changes for the better, the youth will gravitate to the sector without any coercion.

I am, etc.,

DERRICK SIMON

Coffee Growers Association