ASR Rep Outlines Strategic Plan for Embattled Sugar Industry

Mac Maclachlan

As you heard, pending the decision of the farmers on Sunday, the agreement will be for a period of seven years. There is an out for the farmers, but only after three years. At that time, if a strategic development plan for the industry is not developed to the satisfaction of B.S.C.F.A., the farmers can opt out of the agreement. It’s small consolation to farmers who will be tied down for at least three years, regardless of what happens, but if it’s any comfort, A.S.R.’s Mac Maclachlan says they are also committed to the formulation of the plan for the development of the industry.

Mac Maclachlan, Vice President, International Relations, B.S.I.

“We are very committed to this industry. We remain committed to this industry. One of the really excellent points that has come out of this discussion is the need for all industry stakeholders to come together next year and to discuss a strategic development plan for the industry. It’s something we’ve wanted to do for a long period of time. So we’re very pleased that provided this agreement is signed to move forward, we can do that next year, and we can look at the roles and responsibilities of all parties in taking forward a proper strategic look at the industry and how we can make it sustainable, and I think that’s the really important factor that we’re looking forward to working on constructively in a committed way.”

The plan, if and when it is formulated, will need to address sugar roads. Farmers we spoke to today told us that even in the best case scenario where the start of the season is concerned, they will have difficulty delivering cane because of the deplorable condition of access roads.