MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Councillors fully committed to Falklands' agriculture

Falkland Islands Councillors remain totally committed to the development of the meat industry, the abattoir and the Agriculture Department's Business Plan, said Councillor Ian Hansen portfolio holder for Camp issues.

Councillors met informally this week to examine and review the Camp economy with a wide ranging presentation given by officials setting out the current performance of businesses in Camp, the prospects for growth and quality of life issues.

Councillors also spent time identifying possible initiatives that might assist Camp residents in the short term and make a contribution to long term sustainability and growth of the Camp economy.

"There is no doubt that people living and working in Camp face many challenges ? not least as a result of world wool prices and changing agricultural practice. This workshop has helped us to focus attention on those challenges", reported Councillor Hansen following the meeting.

He added that with the imminent introduction of the Interim Ferry Service, "we expect this will provide opportunities for the development of the Camp economy".

However much more has to be done and will be examined in some detail over the coming weeks during the build-up to next year's budget.

"We will be working on some quick wins to provide immediate assistance to the Camp economy but also aim to address some longer term issues".

So far as agriculture is concerned, "we remain totally committed to the development of the meat industry and the abattoir and the Agriculture Department's Business Plan", underlined Councillor Hansen.

"We therefore hope to be able to continue support at the present level to various existing initiatives, including the Pasture Improvement Programme, for at least the life of this Council. Similarly, the continuing contribution of the abattoir"