The President of the Regional Government said that the agreement reached between LactoPico and LactoAçores is a solution for the future of milk production on the island; however, "there is still much work ahead of us" in order to successfully achieve this goal.

"If we follow the path towards the enhancement of local production is implemented on Pico Island, we will be able to free up resources in order to solve" the liabilities of the cooperative, said Vasco Cordeiro. The government official spoke to journalists at the end of an audience with the chairmen of LactoPico, Jorge Pereira, and LactAçores, Gil Jorge Oliveira.

This agreement arises from consultation efforts that were undertaken discretely by the Azorean Government. According to the President of the Government, focused on the "main issues" concerning this process.

"We have met the conditions to ensure the future of this sector," the government official said, stressing the willingness demonstrated by LactoPico, LactAçores, local producers and Caixa de Crédito Agrícola to be part of the solution developed by the government.

"The worst thing that could happen was if we all got the impression that there is a kind of magic wand solution for LactoPico," said the government official.

The President of the Government reiterated that the Government is available to collaborate in the solutions that can provide sustainability to the future of the dairy industry on the island of Pico. Nevertheless, he noted that "challenges cannot be overcome by writing a check to pay past debts."

"Only the efforts developed by this sector can free up the resources to do that," defended Vasco Cordeiro.

Regarding the solution that was presented by the chairmen of LactoPico and LactAçores, Vasco Cordeiro highlighted the fact that it arises as "a demonstration of cooperative spirit."

Under this solution, LactoAçores will take over the industrial and commercial management of Pico's dairy cooperative to guarantee the future of the sector.

"This is a solution that puts the future of the dairy industry of Pico Island into a new perspective," the President of the Government said, adding that "we must continue working hard and persistently."