The Praedial Larceny Prevention Unit (PLPU) of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture & Fisheries is ramping up its public education campaign, as it continues to ensure that Jamaican farmers reap what they grow.
As part of the campaign, the PLPU, on Tuesday (April 5), launched its inaugural essay competition targeting students at the primary and secondary levels. The launch was held at the Ministry’s Hope Gardens headquarters in St. Andrew.
In his address at the event, Minister without Portfolio, Hon. J.C. Hutchinson, said that tackling praedial larceny is critical to the development of the agricultural sector in Jamaica.
“Praedial larceny is one of those areas that have threatened the growth of the (agricultural) sector. On a weekly basis, we hear of incidents of animals and farm produce being stolen, therefore I welcome this initiative by the PLPU to highlight the plight of farmers,” he said.
Providing an overview of the competition, Praedial Larceny Prevention Co-ordinator of the PLPU, Trudy-Ann Edwards, explained that the main objectives of the competition are: to sensitise students, parents and teachers to the negative impact of farm theft on Jamaica’s economy; and to engage rural communities in the fight against the scourge.
The competition is open to students in two categories: ages nine to 12 years old, who will respond to the question: ‘How does Praedial Larceny affect the farmers in your community?’ and ages 13 to 18, who will write on the topic: ‘What are the socio-economic impacts of Praedial Larceny on the Jamaican agricultural sector?’
The essay must be an original work written in Standard English, and applicants are asked to submit the material along with a completed application form and passport-size photograph.
The application forms can be downloaded from the Ministry’s website at www.moa.gov.jm.
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