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NLIS 1 August 13, 2004 (Executive Council) Premier announces support for Labrador agriculture industry Premier Danny Williams and Lake Melville MHA John Hickey today announced funding of $165,000 to the Lake Melville Agriculture Association which will be used to purchase a tractor and associated equipment to assist in the development of the agriculture industry in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay area. "Our government made a commitment that we would develop agriculture opportunities in Labrador," said Premier Williams. "The association and local farmers have told government that a critical issue in this area for the growth of the agriculture sector is the development of a land base. Through this funding support, we have responded to their concerns by providing the farmers with the necessary equipment to conduct research into new crops and develop land for commercial agriculture use." Premier Williams said the approval of this funding for the Lake Melville Agriculture Association will support the implementation of the Northern Agrifoods Development Strategy which was released by government last month. "One of the strategic actions outlined in the Northern Agrifoods Development Strategy was the need for agriculture land development in Labrador," said Premier Williams. "In addition to having the equipment required to undertake the activity, government has also identified significant acreage in Happy Valley-Goose Bay to be used for agriculture land." Premier Williams also stated that the development of the agriculture industry both in Labrador and on the island is very important to this government�s economic agenda. "We recognize the importance of the agriculture sector in assisting government�s priority to get the economy of this province growing in a way that generates more jobs, investment, diversification and revenue in our own communities," the premier stated. "In our efforts to diversify the economy, it is evident the agriculture sector can be one of the leaders. Its impacts are felt throughout the entire province, particularly in rural Newfoundland and Labrador." "I am pleased to see this funding allocated to the Lake Melville Agricultural Association," said Mr. Hickey. "I will continue to work with the association and our local farmers to make sure we do take advantage of the opportunities that exist here to grow this industry." The funding was allocated under the Provincial Agrifoods Assistance Program of the Department of Natural Resources which provides financial assistance to eligible applicants involved in primary or secondary processing activities which improve the economic viability of the agrifoods industry; promote commercialization; and enhance the competitive capability of agrifoods industry. The program also provides selective assistance to agricultural associations and non-agricultural groups for initiatives that support the priorities of the program which includes land development and improvement. Media contact:
2004 08 13 10:20 a.m. |
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