'We must take food production & food security more seriously'- Premier Wheatley
The Premier was addressing those in attendance at the contract signing for consultancy services for engineering design and construction management of water mains and civil works for the Farmer’s Reservoir in Paraquita Bay, through the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA).
The over two hundred and fifty thousand dollar contract was signed wth Alvia Limited on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the conference room of BVI Finance in Road Town.
“For generations, the lands in the Paraquita Bay area have been recognised for their fertility and productivity. Our farmers have cultivated these lands for decades, consistently yielding various food crops.”
Dr Wheatley said that while those engaged in agriculture are deeply passionate about their work and take great pride in contributing to the nourishment and well-being of communities, the most persistent challenge they face is access to a reliable water supply for crop irrigation.
“This issue has long been a concern, and like many of our other enduring national challenges, we have spent years discussing potential solutions. Yet, we remain short of turning those discussions into decisive action.”
This is why the government decided to prioritise the construction of the farmer's reservoir.
Once completed, the reservoir will enable farmers to irrigate their crops better and care for their livestock, reducing losses and increasing production.
Our people need food to survive- Premier Wheatley
The Premier said his administration continues to be committed to charting new paths beyond the cycles that have held back progress in the VI.
“Food security is one major challenge facing countries in today’s geopolitical environment… We have witnessed what happens when supplies and supply chains are disrupted. In this regard, we must take the issue of food production and food security more seriously. Our people need food to survive. Our tourism industry needs food to serve guests,” he explained.
The Premier added that like tourism, agriculture puts food on tables, pays rent and utility bills, and puts children through school and college.
“If we want our local food producers to help us become more food secure, we must work closely with them, ensure they have the necessary resources to be productive and viable, and support and encourage them.”
More land for food production
Premier Wheatley said he looks forward to the project’s completion and to seeing more locally produced food in supermarkets, restaurants and homes in the VI.
“I also hope that our farming community will grow in numbers as the situation improves.”
The Premier added that work will continue on the Agricultural and Fisheries Complex, as well as on making more land available for food production, and introducing a programme of grants to empower farmers and fishers.
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10 Responses to “'We must take food production & food security more seriously'- Premier Wheatley”
So a resavior, while welcome, is not the LONGTERM fix.
Supply equals demand.