The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Forestry signed a collaboration protocol with SALVATERRA - Santa Maria Development and Social Solidarity Association, which aims to provide citizens with difficulties in entering the labour market with new skills, through the provision of specific training in agriculture 

"This is a way to contribute to the personal enrichment of trainees and to give them new skills, while raising their interest for agriculture," said the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry, who spoke Wednesday at the protocol signing ceremony at the Santa Maria Agrarian Development Service. 

João Ponte stressed that this protocol puts agriculture at the service of people, stressing that the sector is attractive, has a future in the Azores and needs more workforce, so it would be positive to see some trainees moving professionally into this area. 

In his speech, the Regional Secretary stated that this protocol will also help the association to boost its revenue, with the sale of agricultural products, and to be able to support those in need, namely families and social solidarity institutions. 

João Ponte also highlighted the entrepreneurial skills of this association, as evidenced by the investment in the provision of agricultural training. 

"We have always sought to provide the best responses to the needs identified within the reach of our powers," assured João Ponte. In this context, he added that, besides the technical support, the protocol provides for four greenhouses, with 850 square metres, and two plots of arable land, with 12 thousand square meters, adjacent to the Agrarian Development Services in Vila do Porto for the cultivation of horticultural products. 

The protocol now signed is valid for a period of one year and may be renewed.