Help us in the fight against fertilizer smuggling – UER Minister
Mr Rockson Ayine, the Upper East Regional Minister, has called on the public to help flush out fertilizer smugglers who are currently taking advantage of the subsidized low prices of the commodity.
He also cautioned the farmers to be circumspect in their dealings with middle men who would try to take undue advantage of them.
Speaking during the May Day celebrations in Bolgatanga, Mr Rockson reminded workers and the general public of the implementation of the intended fertilizer subsidy to farmers in the region, saying this is an important development that would boost agriculture.
He said government would recruit 1,200 agriculture extension agents in the region to augment staff of the agricultural sector to support 750 targeted farmers, saying industrialization in the region would be linked to its enormous agriculture potential.
Mr Rockson called on land owners to release lands for the ‘one village one dam’ policy to boost agricultural production and help create more jobs.
The Minister appealed to workers in the region to be vigilant and check the bad behaviour of their colleagues who use working hours to engage in unproductive acts.
He urged workers to be punctual, dedicated to work and eschew negative tendencies such as alcoholism, absenteeism lateness to work and, waste and disrespect for authority.
Mr Rockson said the role of Heads of Departments in the various sectors was critical in the drive for development since their technical and professional expertise was required to build a healthy nation.
He said where productivity is high, it would reflect on decent salaries and wages to cater for the basic needs of all in the region.
Whilst congratulating all workers on the day, he also called on workers’ unions to stand firm against any unpatriotic behavior of people who seek to bring government’s vision for the country to disrepute.
The Minister, who is popularly called “Action Man”, said his administration would operate an open door policy but would not countenance any lawlessness.
Source: GNA