SODELPA MP Viliame Gavoka says that it is a tragedy that the contribution of the agriculture sector to the Gross Domestic Product continues to be as low as 10% to 12%.
Gavoka highlighted this while moving the motion to appoint a Select Committee to inquire into and make recommendations in relation to Agricultural Development and Marketing plans and strategies for Fiji with the view of sustainable development of natural resources.
The motion was defeated in parliament.
Gavoka says there needs to be a clear strategy and policy in place to guide on how land and developing resources should be used in a sustainable manner.
While opposing the motion, Minister for Agriculture Inia Seruiratu says although GDP is less than 10%, the contribution of non-sugar agriculture, has continued to increase consistently from 2007.
Seruiratu then highlighted that the Opposition has forgotten whatever he has said previously about agriculture.
While agreeing to the motion, Opposition MP Mosese Bulitavu says that government is not doing enough for the farmers.
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