Agri ministry calls meeting between Wray & Nephew and Algix

The agriculture ministry has called a meeting for Monday with the management of Appleton Estates and Algix Jamaica as it seeks to resolve the issues which have led to the closure of the estate.

Operations at the sugar estate run by J. Wray & Nephew Limited have been put on hold following the injunction obtained by fish farm operator Algix Jamaica.

The factory was slated to open three weeks ago.

The move has sparked protests by concerned cane farmers who say their livelihoods will be affected the longer the situation drags on.

In a release this afternoon, the ministry said it was not at liberty to get involved in a matter before the court.

However, it says it is allowed to facilitate the mediation process between both parties.

The ministry says it will continue to do its best to facilitate a speedy resolution of the matter, given its sensitivity and the importance of the agricultural sector to the economy.

Meanwhile, it is urging the affected stakeholders who have been protesting to be calm.

The opposition had called for the intervention of the government in the matter.