Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Dr Hon Karl Dawson (R1) has admitted his ministry has fallen short in executing plans decided upon for the sector in the Territory. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

A small Agriculture and Fisheries Unit has been opened to assist the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in executing plans. Photo: Internet Source

The two-day Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition at Paraquita Bay kicked off on Saturday, March 8, 2025, marking the official start to Agriculture and Fisheries Month. Photo: GIS

During his remarks at the start of the two-day Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition at Paraquita Bay on Saturday, March 8, 2025, marking the official start to Agriculture and Fisheries Month, Dr Dawson said, “One of the challenges we face with respect to agriculture and fisheries is the ability to implement the things we have decided upon.”

In response to this, he revealed that an Agriculture and Fisheries Unit was established through the support of Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) and the Permanent Secretary Mrs Carolyn E. Stoutt-Igwe.

“This step means that we now have dedicated staff to focus on completing the Water Policy for one, License Agreement for farmers, legislative changes for farming and fishing, planning, and other related matters,” the minister explained.

Looking forward to rapid progress- Dr Dawson

The Junior Minister added that with the establishment of this new Agriculture and Fisheries Unit, though small, he is looking forward to more “rapid progress and results”.

Meanwhile, he said major capital projects- the Paraquita Bay Reservoir and the Agriculture and Fisheries Complex- are being undertaken by the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA). 

“They are actively moving them forward including consultations with stakeholders, the importance of which are important to us moving forward,” Dr Dawson stated.

In relation to the fisheries sector, Dr Dawson said he would continue to work with Premier Wheatley and his colleagues for the designation of a centrally located landing site as well as ones in East End, West End, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost van Dyke.

“We will ensure that they provide the services needed,” he added.

Collaborations for 2025

Dr Dawson also revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries will have several collaborations throughout the year.

One such collaboration is with the Department of Waste Management and Green VI for organics management, ensuring that useful organic materials are made available to farmers.

Beekeepers will also be supported in producing healthy honey and in supporting crop production in the Territory.

Additionally, the ministry will join with the BVI Tourist Board to promote the use of local products on all menus.