The government of Montserrat is pursuing a number of areas for economic diversification and growth, including agricultural transformation.
So says Premier, the Honourable Reuben T. Meade.
The leader of government business also spoke about plans for renewable energy and geothermal development.
Speaking during the recent sitting of Parliament, Premier Meade stated that increased attention will be place on domestic food production, agro-processing, fisheries, livestock and horticulture.
He said this is intended to reduce dependence on imported food while creating additional income-generating opportunities for farmers, fishers, and businesses involved in the processing and distribution sectors.
According to the Premier “energy is another area with significant potential for economic diversification. Government is continuing to work on geothermal development and the wider transition to renewable energy.”
He explained that it is “our plan to explore the potential for developing Montserrat’s geothermalresources using technology that could generate electricity while also making productive use of geothermal heat. This represents an opportunity to strengthen energy security, support economic development, and create new opportunities for Montserrat. Human and capital participation.”
Government is also focusing on skills development “so that residents are positioned to benefit from the investment taking place on the island. This includes technical and vocational education, apprenticeships, and training in areas where there is current and anticipated demand. The ECCB has similarly identified apprenticeships and specialized training in areas such as carpentry, masonry, and plumbing as measures that can increase local participation in economic activity,” he said.
Government is pursuing digital transformation and other emerging economic opportunities as part of the effort to create economic activity that is not dependent on traditional sectors or public construction.