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Minister of Agriculture, Senator Haynesley Benn??

The Ministry of Agriculture???s Fisheries Division received a much needed boost with the addition of a new tractor to its fleet.

Valued at approximately $500,000 the tractor, the fourth for the Division, was officially handed over by the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Haynesley Benn, to the Chief Fisheries Officer, Steven Willoughby, today in a brief ceremony at the Ministry of Agriculture???s Graeme Hall, headquarters.

Used for the purpose of hauling and pushing fishing vessels, the fully computerised tractor will assist fisher folk and boat owners, especially since the hurricane season will commence next month.

According to Minister Benn: ???This piece of equipment is very timely for the Fisheries Division. The hurricane season is fast approaching and we want to ensure that they (officers from the Division) are up to speed so they can do their job properly.???

Meanwhile, the Chief Fisheries Officer welcomed being presented with the piece of equipment saying it came at an opportune time as the other tractors were well over ten years and in dire need of servicing.

In addition, Chief Agricultural Officer, Barton Clarke said this gesture was the Ministry???s way of giving back to the fishing community and it (the equipment) was not only critical during the hurricane season but on an overall day-to-day basis.???

tblackman@barbados.gov.bb

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