34 T here was a change of Government in Montserrat in October 2024. The United Alliance Government led by Reuben T. Meade, the island’s Chief Minister at the time of the volcanic events in 1995, took office for the second time now as the Premier. The Government presented its budget on April 8, 2025. The budget identified and indicated the provision of financial resources for the varying sector specific needs across priority sectors such as: • Access • Aviation and Maritime Development • Agriculture, Lands and Survey, Environmental Management, Housing • Broadcasting and Communication • Buildings, Utilities, Infrastructure & labour (BUILT ) – Major Initiatives • Digital Transformation • Disaster Management Coordinating Agency • Education • Energy and Utilities • Health Care Improvement and Transformation • Information and Communication • International and Regional Relations - Police and Fire Services - Public Service Delivery • Tourism - Youth Affairs and Sports The following is an excerpt from the budget. It is being used here to show the priorities for government action in the short-term, as the Montserrat continues to rebuild. The Government is committed to attracting both foreign direct and local investment to drive economic growth. This presentation is also a call to our diaspora to unite and invest in key sectors that show significant growth potential, such as agriculture, real estate, tourism, renewable energy, infrastructure development, financial services, and the digital economy, among others. With investment in these areas, we can create jobs, stimulate innovation, and build a stronger, more resilient economy for the benefit of future generations. In agriculture, there are major opportunities, especially in the area to local food production. That is because our annual food import bill stands at $18 million, while local food production, including crops and livestock, amounts to just over $2 million. It is time to make food sovereignty a priority. I emphasise sovereignty rather than security because our goal is not just to ensure access to food, but to build a resilient, self-sufficient system where production, distribution, and consumption are conducted sustainably. As a result, we would be able to reduce our dependence on imports and strengthen our local agriculture industry. At the same time, creating a more secure, sustainable, and prosperous future for Montserrat. Government will continue to develop policies for agricultural growth; improve access to arable farmlands and agricultural infrastructure; implement better pest and livestock control measures; boost local production through irrigation and access to water; promote sustainable farming through new technologies and invest in youth and community engagements to encourage participation in farming. These efforts will not only build resilience against global supply chain disruptions. They will also create a healthier, more sustainable food system, thereby ensuring that Montserrat’s future is both foodsecure and economically self-reliant. Madam Speaker, a healthy nation is a wealthy nation. We extend our sincere gratitude to the ECCB for its pledged $2.1 million support for our agricultural sector. This investment will play a vital role in strengthening food security, enhancing productivity, and driving sustainable growth in the industry. Madam Speaker, the government is also committed to fostering new synergies between agriculture and tourism, as this collaboration creates mutual benefits for both sectors while boosting employment opportunities. Tourism remains a cornerstone of our economy, and we have seen a steady recovery in the post-pandemic era. The return of stay-over visitors and the resurgence of cruise ship arrivals have provided a significant economic boost. We will continue to support the Montserrat Tourism Authority in promoting the island as a unique travel destination, with • Continues on next page
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