Analee Bernard, Gleaner Writer

Tufton

Black River, St Elizabeth:

Two hundred thousand fruit trees will be distributed to householders in St Elizabeth as a means of replanting those that were destroyed by recent hurricanes, Agriculture Minister Dr Christopher Tufton has announced.

Tufton outlined the plan as he addressed the 45th Annual Flower Show at Independence Park, Black River, in the parish on Easter Monday.

He also revealed a $65 million estimate for a new Black River market, a boardwalk along the sea and the upgrading of Middle Quarters as 'shrimp country'.

"A new type of respect must be given to local farmers, a message we have to get across to everyone that we have to boost local production," Tufton said.

Prices of imported foods will continue to rise and we have to have a responsibility to get back to the basics as cassava has the same amount of carbohydrates as flour or rice.

"The 'Eat What We Grow' campaign will have to be implemented. We have to recognise and highlight that we still have the potential to consume what we grow and we will also save money," the minister said.

Also bringing greetings at the flower show were Mayor of Black River, Councillor Jeremy Palmer, who told the crowd that Black River was going to see better days as he was sure he would get the support of the citizens to clean up the town and make it more attractive.

The flower show was highlighted as one of the biggest ever, since its inception 45 years ago.