So, while Hugo Patt was speaking with us today as the Minister of Labour, we asked him for his perspective as a former member of the Sugar Industries Control Board. We understand that the crop is winding down, and while a vast majority of the farmers have delivered their cane, there are still others who have been unable to do so due to weather conditions.
We understand that those farmers are hoping that the millers would consider keeping the factory opened a little while longer. So, we asked Patt, who is the Area Rep for Corozal North, a division with a significant number of cane farmers, about it. The said that the Millers are keeping the farmers in mind:
Hon. Hugo Patt - Minister of Labour
"We know that the Sugar Industry in its optimum capacity operates under a very dry weather. We had 2 fronts coming in which have practically poured a lot of water into our fields. That is basically the draw back and the farmers not able to deliver cane. You would know that towards the end of the season as well there are farmers who are far advanced their quotas and there are those who still have left overs. So, in giving opportunities for all of those who have cane out in the fields and are being able to deliver this is the time for them to operate and deliver their cane as best as possible. At this point in time I get from the numbers we've gotten from the people from the industry. We have about 90 to 95 percent of all farmers who have delivered their quota. At this point in time those who have excess cane, there is the opportunity for them to deliver. In terms of fairness, I think that at this point in time almost all cane farmers have delivered. Unfortunately, those who are caught with low lands and if the weather does not permit, I'm sure that those fields will be left for the other season."
We understand that there is to be a meeting between the stakeholders about the most appropriate date that the factors should close on this harvesting season.
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