MOSSEL BAY NEWS - This week Monday, 10 June saw the first meeting being held with newly appointed MEC for Agriculture in the Western Cape, Dr Ivan Meyer, and the Adv Estienne Pretorius, Head of Ministry of Agriculture, Western Cape with the Midbrak Farmer's Association at Eden Country Inn, Little Brak River.
The meeting was the initiative of Councillor Annatjie Janse van Rensburg of Ward 4 and was attended by the Chairman of the Farmer's Association, Mr Tinie Gericke, along with leading farmers of the area.
"Dr Meyer is an expert on public governance, finance and development management. During his term he will continue to build the importance of agriculture in the Western Cape," commented Tinie Gericke after the meeting.
"Economy, agricultural training, climate change, farm worker support and coordinating the fourteen different rural modes in the province are also part of his vision. He is passionate about rural stakeholders to grow the economy and create jobs. He will also liaise with global agricultural players to increase exports. In addition, he will continue to liaise with the diplomatic and consular corps through international relations."
Gericke said that Dr Meyer, as a senior member of the government, will have an important impact taking over a agriculture as a vital economic driver in the Western Cape. "It is a critically important matter, as our exports contribute to 45% of SA exports and has a total value of R21 billion."
The meeting was very well received whilst open and frank discussions were held. Dr Meyer said that listening to the farmers' concerns, fears and aspirations brought to the fore that they love farming and require a safer environment for themselves and their farm workers. Topics discussed included rural safety, water, training and development, farmer support, farm worker support, agri export development, farm watch, rural road infrastructure, watching briefs, police ombudsman, SAPS resources and job creation.Further meetings are envisaged to take place within the next couple of months.
"We are very grateful towards Councillor Annatjie van Rensburg for taking the initiative in arranging this opportunity."
A fruitful discussion was had between members of the Midbrak Farmer's Association and newly appointed MEC for Agriculture in the Western Cape, Dr Ivan Meyer (front, second from right).
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