FEBRUARY 15, 2010 ….Five spanking new tractors were on Monday, added to the list of implements, already on the fields with an aim to boost production at the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Housing & the Environment.

Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Housing & the Environment Hilson Baptiste, received from Managing Director, Ideal Autos Peter Rippon the keys to the five, Massey Ferguson, during a brief, ceremony at the ministry’s courtyard.

The minister thanked Ideal Autos for their gestures, he; however challenged the drivers “to take care of the equipment, treat them as if they are your own.”

He emphasized that, the equipment are not to be used for private jobs.

To this end, the minister said, plans are in place at the motor pool, for proper management, scheduling and accountability for the equipment, within the ministry. He also, urged the drivers to pay attention to the maintenance schedule.

With the addition of the new equipment, Baptiste is optimistic that by December, local production will be increased significantly.

Minister of State, Chanlah Codrington, described the moment as “historic.”

He said that, this is an indication, that the Ministry means business.

Codrington said, “Gone are the days’ when farmers are faced with in ordinance delay, to get their lands plough. As of today, it is a different situation, because the resources are available.”

He noted that, marketing is very critical, especially, “when food is in galore.”

Rippon, expressed that “agriculture, is no longer taken a backstage.” He noted that, while other sectors are affected, Agriculture remains resilient.

Ideal Autos, GM, disclosed assured the officials that the heavy duty equipment are reliable and affordable. He pledged a continued working relationship with the ministry.

The brief ceremony, was added by Permanent Secretary Clarence Pilgrim, Deputy Director Jedidiah Maxime, Veterinary and Livestock Officer Astley Joseph, and staff at the Ministry.