Natural disasters are one of the greatest threats to the local agricultural sector which places farmers at a disadvantage, However, Minister of Agriculture Pearnel Charles Jr said that farmers will now have greater access to insurance to help them recover from the impacts of natural disasters.

Charles Jr, who was delivering his presentation in the 2023/24 Sectoral Debate today (May 2), said that Gk General Insurance Weather Protect is now offering a micro-insurance policy that will provide help, especially to non-salary income earners to cope with the impacts of extreme weather events (wind and rain).

He explained that pay-out is based on the weather index, which is excess rainfall and high wind speed
measured in each parish. Once the trigger value is reached then the pay-out will be automatic.

Charles added that farmers and fisherfolk now have access to life and health insurance through GK Insurance Agri-Care Plan and Sagicor Agri-Care Plan.

“We want to ensure, Madam Speaker, that our farmers and fishers are well taken care of and have the means to secure access to health services, should the need arise,” he said.

He noted that the aim is to improve the livelihoods of farmers, fisherfolk and their families.

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