Veterinarians from across the Caribbean convened in Kingstown today for the 5th General Assembly of CARIBVET at the NIS Conference Room.
This is the first time that this event is being hosted by St. Vincent and the Grenadines and also the first in-person CARIBVET event since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Addressing the forum, Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Saboto Caesar said as the region looks to reduce the food import bill of Caribbean member states by twenty-five percent (25%) by 2025, these discussions are welcome and timely.
The Minister added the forum provides an opportunity to discuss climate change and its impact on farmers and their livestock and find solutions going forward.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Nerissa Gittens-McMillan said the five-day forum will also examine the use of correct safety measures in animal production and meat safety.
Agriculture Programme Manager (CARICOM) Shaun Baugh stressed that the meeting is occurring at a time where the issue of food security is of concern in the Caribbean region and with animal health issues including Influenza found in Cattle, there must be a collective approach in battling these new challenges.
He added that as a member of CARICOM, it is vital that networking happens not only with CARICOM but on the international stage.