Construction works continue on the new Volet Agriculture Livestock Centre in Micoud.

The Volet Agriculture Livestock Centre, currently in its first phase, will see the development of approximately 30 acres of land, where operations will focus on growing the livestock industry.

Works remain ongoing in the construction of roads and drainage infrastructure, two swine units, a rabbitry, two small ruminant pens, a warehouse for storage for feed and equipment, and a building for the stockmen.

Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet said the new station will enable the production of breeding stock that can be supplied to butchers.

“This will be a research centre, so we have buildings that will be purposely built to facilitate the development of livestock in different areas. I’m excited to see the infrastructure that has been developed so far,” he said.

Parliamentary Representative for Micoud North, Hon. Dr. Gale Rigobert is expectant of the myriad opportunities for farmers in the constituency, as well as youth who may be interested in the agriculture sector.

“I think finally we have found a space where not only the Ministry of Agriculture can continue with research and development, but it is a bonus that the facility is in the vicinity of farmers so that they interact more closely with technocrats so as to improve yields, production, and agriculture practices. Additionally, a facility such as this will afford constituents and young agriculturists employment opportunities. So we are looking excitedly toward the completion of this project.”

The Volet Agriculture Station will be another milestone achieved by the Ministry of Agriculture in making the local agriculture economy more viable and competitive. Some of the services to be offered at the Volet Agriculture Station include animal health advisory and treatment services provided by livestock extension officers; and veterinarians to facilitate improved livestock production. Quarantine officers and veterinary public health officers will also be on hand to ensure all food safety requirements are met.