The Ministry of Agriculture in Saint Lucia recently collaborated with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to assess the strengths and weaknesses of current pesticide regulations in the country. The meeting was held as part of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) MEAS 3 Capacity Building related to Multilateral Agreements project and aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of existing pesticide regulations and to recommend changes for better pesticide management.

Stakeholders, including representatives from the Agriculture Ministry and the FAO, discussed the findings of an assessment conducted in the country last year. The focus was on sustainable agriculture practices, biodiversity conservation and use, and the promotion of integrated pest management systems. The stakeholders emphasized the importance of balancing agricultural productivity with environmental protection and the need to safeguard the health of communities and preserve natural resources.

The National Project Coordinator for the ACP MEAs 3 Project, Leshan Monrose, highlighted the significance of providing necessary technical assistance and training to improve pesticide regulation and management. He emphasized that sustainable agriculture practices are key to addressing the weaknesses in pesticide governance.

The Director of Agricultural Services, Dr. Auria King-Cenac, echoed the importance of balancing productivity and environmental protection. She stressed that sustainable agriculture practices are crucial for preserving the natural resources that sustain livelihoods and ensuring the health of communities.

The assessment of pesticide regulation in Saint Lucia underscores the need for ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory frameworks and improve compliance with pesticide regulations. Through continued collaboration and support from organizations like the FAO, the Agriculture Ministry continues to work towards a safer and more sustainable agricultural sector.