Bridging Gaps: L. Allen Wheatley’s role in strengthening Agriculture & Fisheries in VI
Mr L. Allen Wheatley shared this insight in an exclusive interview with Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), affirming as an example, “...we established chat groups for farmers and fishermen, enabling direct communication with not only myself and the minister but also the premier and other relevant ministers.”
This initiative, he explained, allowed stakeholders to raise concerns, share feedback, and receive timely responses from officials.
Among Mr Wheatley’s more noteworthy achievements also was in tackling pressing issues, such as water supply, telling VINO, “...for instance, we established a routine for water supply, ensuring farmers received water three days a week—Monday, Wednesday, and Friday—with alternate dates provided in case of disruptions.”
This, he said, marked a significant improvement in a sector where water availability was previously unpredictable.
Budgetary Constraints
While Mr Wheatley joined the ministry after the 2024 budget was passed, he noted that key projects were adequately funded.
“The reservoir for water supply and the ministry building were included in the 2024 budget, so we didn’t face major budgetary challenges during my tenure,” he stated.
Mr Wheatley also highlighted the poignantly unique funding mechanism for agriculture and fisheries under the Money Services Act, which allocates 16 percent of specific revenues to the sector that has served to meet its financial demands.
Unfinished Business & Future Plans
Reflecting on unaccomplished goals, Mr Wheatley lamented delays in legislative amendments and infrastructure projects, saying “...we drafted several legislative amendments, but they are yet to be passed; Additionally, initiatives like land surveying and formal lease agreements for agricultural lands remain incomplete.”
Looking ahead; however, Mr Wheatley identified key priorities for the coming years, including the construction of a reservoir and formalising land leases.
“We started surveying lands in Anegada and plan to extend this to other islands; Assigning formal leases or deeds is crucial for farmers and fishermen to secure their operations.”
Another major initiative he shed light on is transitioning the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries into a statutory body.
He cautioned nonetheless, “....this process is about two to three years out, but we’ve already made progress with funding and constructing a physical headquarters for the department.”
Technological Innovations
Asked about the adoption of new technologies in future, Mr Wheatley deferred to the substantive Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, noting that specific initiatives in this area fall under the director’s remit.
“I know the director is working on a few initiatives to enhance production and efficiency, but I wouldn’t want to speak on his behalf,” he said, underscoring the collaborative nature of the ministry’s work.
Looking ahead, Mr Wheatley was adamant that some of the ministry’s key focuses would be on formalising land leases, constructing necessary facilities, and transitioning to a statutory body to reflect a commitment to long-term sustainability and growth.
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