Phillips calls for greater support for St Lucy farmers

St Lucy MP Peter Phillips on Tuesday called for increased support for farmers in his constituency, warning that the island’s “bread basket” must be strengthened as Barbados pushes to boost local food production amid global uncertainty.

Phillips linked his appeal to the government’s wider emphasis on food security following the oil and shipping disruptions triggered by international conflict.

He argued that St Lucy, long regarded as one of the island’s key agricultural zones, must play a central role in that strategy.

“If we are serious about producing and consuming more local food, then we have to support the farmers, particularly in areas like St Lucy,” he said, urging targeted investment to help expand output and sustain livelihoods in the industry.

Phillips also welcomed progress in addressing longstanding water issues in the north, praising the government’s advanced mains-laying programme as a step towards resolving the persistent problem of discoloured water.

At the same time, he raised concerns about the pace and quality of road repairs, calling on the Barbados Water Authority to improve its response after infrastructure works.

While acknowledging the importance of upgrading the water network, he said residents continue to face frustration when roads are not properly restored.

The St Lucy MP also used his contribution to highlight what he described as a lack of investment in recreational and sporting facilities in the north.

He challenged the minister for sport, Charles Griffith, on the absence of St Lucy from plans to construct new athletic tracks, noting that other parts of the island were earmarked for such development.

“We in the north need to be considered too,” Phillips said, calling for a more equitable distribution of national projects.

A major focus of his presentation was the need for renewed development at Archers Bay, which he said holds significant untapped potential for both recreation and economic activity.

Phillips noted that while the park was once a vibrant community space, little has been done since its initial opening.

“We need the development of Archers Bay… it cannot just be a pasture or a place with painted spots,” he said, pointing to repeated complaints from residents about the lack of facilities.

He called for the installation of hard courts and other amenities to support sports and community use, arguing that the area attracts large crowds on weekends and has the potential to generate economic benefits for local vendors.

“Buses come, churches come, families come every weekend,” he said, adding that improved facilities would encourage more visitors and create opportunities for small businesses.

Phillips warned that failure to act could lead to declining activity in the area, reducing income for residents who depend on weekend traffic.

“If everybody stops coming… that means there is no money being spent,” he said.

He insisted that the necessary resources are available and urged the government to move more quickly on the project.

“We have the opportunity now… let us get to it. It cannot take forever,” Phillips said. (TD)