Thank you very much. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I wish to inform the House that Government is fully cognisant of the operational constraints that may be faced by fruit and vegetable sellers, particularly those operating in regions located at some distance from the National Wholesale Market at Wooton. Now, while the National Wholesale Market presently operated by the Agricultural Marketing Board has been established to bring aggregation in the marketing of agricultural produce, it is not intended to operate in isolation nor as the sole channel of distribution. Government is, in fact, pursuing a progressive decentralisation and facilitative approach aimed at bringing markets closer to the stakeholders and enhancing accessibility across regions. In this context, the proposal to make use of existing infrastructure, including farmer service centres for the setting up of satellite or mini wholesale facilities, is being given due consideration by the Ministry. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am informed by the Agricultural Marketing Board that such approach would enable improved proximity of supply for operators, not only in the northern region, but also in the eastern region if we reduce logistical and transportation costs, greater participation of planters, auctioneers and traders at the regional level and a better alignment with Government's broader objectives in terms of environmental sustainability. By bringing aggregation and distribution points closer to production zones and end markets, transport distances can be reduced, thereby lowering fuel consumption, easing road congestion and ultimately reducing the carbon footprint associated with the movement of agricultural produce, enhancing the freshness of agricultural produce. A short supply chain allows fruits and vegetables to reach markets more rapidly and with less handling. This not only improves quality for consumers, but also reduces spoilage and losses for planters and traders and enhances regulatory oversight at the regional level. In fact, it would also allow the Pesticide Regulatory Office to engage more closely with planters, traders, distributors through the proximity-based monitoring and sensitisation. Now, relevant technical assessment, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, will be undertaken by my Ministry with a view to determining the feasibility, operational model and modalities under which such decentralised facilities will be implemented in an efficient and sustainable manner. These assessments are expected to be completed within a short term with a view to informing subsequent destination. Government remains committed to fostering a hybrid and inclusive marketing system where the National Wholesale Market operates in synergy with regional distribution points and existing market structures.

Yes!

Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir. Will the hon. Minister agree that the previous government’s decision to have a centralised wholesale market at Wooton has a main impact on the high price of vegetables and fruits in the northern region or any region far from Wooton?

The reply obviously is found in the question that you have put to me. It goes without saying! I recall when we had debates on the amendment to the Agricultural Marketing Board in relation to the setting up of the National Wholesale Market, we highlighted the dangers, and we even said, without fear or prejudice, to the then Minister that there will be costs overrun – there have been costs overrun – and that we would end up with a white elephant on a sand castle. Basically, this is where we are! So, there was no vision. It was mainly a decision taken without giving thought to all the implications. Today, we have landed up, as I have said, with a white elephant on a sand castle.

Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir. May I ask the hon. Minister if a consultation could be arranged at the earliest possible with the small planters of the northern region, especially in Constituencies No. 5, 6 and 7? Thank you.

I always entertain whenever a request is made. I have met our friends several times. Since there is a legitimate request from a very distinguished MP of the constituency, I will bow and certainly entertain your request.

Just one last question.

Yes, one question.

One last question!

One last question. While awaiting the decentralisation, is there any consideration to change the time schedule for the operations being carried out?

Well, I cannot be specific. We will not act like fools and rush where angels fear to tread, but we will certainly entertain your legitimate request.

Hon. Second Member for Rodrigues! RODRIGUES ISLAND – FOREIGN WORKERS – WORK PERMITS & COMPLIANCE MECHANISM