The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry announced today that the Azorean Government will invest about 3.3 million Euros this year in roads, electrification and water supply to farms on São Miguel Island, creating better conditions for this sector.
 
"The investment made in agrarian planning infrastructures on all islands is essential for the development of the agricultural sector and has a direct impact on the farms' revenue," said João Ponte. He spoke at the opening of the improvement works of Eirinha Road, located in Santana-Rabo de Peixe Agricultural Planning Perimeter, on the island of São Miguel.
 
According to the government official, "both minor and major investments are important and evidence the cohesion policy" pursued by the Regional Government. It has provided better conditions for farmers, not only in terms of accessibility but also in terms of electrification and water supply to farmers, whether on a small or larger island.
 
"Leaving no one behind is the principle underpinning our political decisions," João Ponte said, recognising, however, that it is neither possible to reach all areas at the same time, nor to meet all claims simultaneously.
 
The improvement works of Eirinha Road will benefit 12 farms, covering an area of 70 hectares. This minor investment included the paving of a 500-metre extension and the construction of an adjacent drainage system.
 
As João Ponte stated, "having a good road does not only mean having better working conditions for farmers insofar as it may also mean more income." In the case of the electrification of farms and the installation of refrigerator equipment, it may increase the price paid by the industry per litre of milk.
 
"In the future decision on the investments to be made in accessibility, we must also take into account this type of criterion," said the government official.
 
This year, the Regional Institute of Agrarian Planning - IROA plans to invest 530 thousand Euros in water supply on São Miguel, 105 thousand Euros in the electrification of farms and 806 thousand Euros in agricultural roads. In turn, the Regional Directorate for Forest Resources will invest two million Euros in rural and forest roads on this island.