Despite concerns over the adverse effects of the Black Sigatoka disease, Saint Lucia banana production is on the rise. Agriculture Minister Alfred Prospere recalled that in June, 75% of the banana industry was destroyed following the passage of Tropical Storm Bret. However, according to the Banana Management Unit there has been an increase in the production of bananas - with Week #51 showing an increase in production from 3,000 to 3,500 boxes per week. Over the next eight weeks, the minister added, the production is anticipated to yield at least 9,000 boxes per week.
The minister noted that the 'downside to these latest developments is an increase in the Black Sigatoka disease "which has been a serious problem for the banana sector and plantain as well". "We have agreed to tackle the hot spots and the hot spots ...are the areas of Micoud, Dennery, Cul de Sac and Roseau. We, as a ministry are trying our best to give some support to the farmers, in terms of (using) the oil spray so that we can have the disease under control. It makes no sense for us to be increasing our production, while we have to confront a serious disease that can wipe out the industry.”
Source: thevoiceslu.com