Accra, April 2, GNA - Three nominees for the positions of Deputy Ministers of Food and Agriculture, on Thursday appeared before the Appointment Committee of Parliament. They are Dr Alfred Sugri Tia, Nii Amasah Namoale and Mr Yaw Effah-Baafi.

Dr Sugri told the Committee that he was not happy with the way poultry production in the country had decreased and gave the assurance that he would work with the Minister to arrest the situation. He said rather, the importation of frozen chicken from outside was on the increase and this does not auger well for local poultry farmers. He said the situation had come about because the sector was not been given the necessary attention over the years and said that, if given the nod, he would ensure that more extension officers were trained to assist farmers.

Dr Sugri said the mortality rate n the local poultry industry was very high and this also accounted for the low production of chicken products in the country, adding that, attention would be given to the causes of diseases which affected birds.

He urged the youth to go into poultry and livestock farming, which he described as a "lucrative venture", and not to think that poultry was a risky business.

He said all efforts would be made to entice the youth to go into farming, especially guinea fowl production.

Dr Sugri also urged young veterinary doctors to go into private practice so that they could go round the country to assist farmers. Nii Namoale said there was the need to sensitize the youth to go into farming and to clear the notion that farming was a punishment, adding that he would also ensure that children in fishing communities are encouraged to go to school.

"Credit facilities for farmers would be a great incentive for the youth to go into farming".

On subsidy, Nii Namoale said there was a need to subsidize agricultural production indirectly through the marketing companies. Mr Effah-Baafi, who went through the vetting in only seven minutes, said the marketing of farm products was a major problem than the actual farming and that efforts must be made to reverse the situation. He said when there is a glut, marketing of farm products becomes difficult and suggested the processing of farm produce to prevent post harvest losses.

He called for the creation of more farmers centres to assist farmers with improved seeds as well as providing tractors for the farmers. 2 April 09