The Dominica Bureau of Standards on Wednesday held its certificate awards ceremony for farmers who had successfully completed the Dominica Good Agricultural Practices (DOM-GAP) certification.

The certification covered areas such as proper record keeping, construction of pack sheds, disposal of chemicals, replacement of signage and proper use of personal protective equipment.

Keisha Joseph,  Technical Officer for quality in the Inspection Unit at the Bureau said that the certification is essential in ensuring that farmers become internationally competitive through the adoption of innovative farm practices that incorporate concepts of global acceptable good agricultural practices.

Joseph commended the farmers who she said worked tirelessly to ensure that they meet the requirements set forth by the certification scheme.The farmers received training in food safety, safe use of pesticides, first aid and calibration.

Joseph said that the Bureau of Standards is committed to ensuring that Dominica’s position on the market remains secure.

Meanwhile, Field Assurer Nicholas Lawrence said that the farmers were already exposed to many of the requirements because they were farming during DBMC times and so had some familiarity with many of the requirements.

Certified farmer Ferdinand Jacques said that while he is pleased with the certification there is a lot to be desired. According to him, although he is certified, his crops sometimes remain on his account as the market is flooded by persons who are not certified.

The 10 farmers are:1.Ross George-Colihaut
2.Connie Joy Telemaque-Wesley
3.Lynn Edwards-Wesley
4.Joseph Canoville-Belles
5.Brian Alexander-Belles
6.Joseph Roberts-Warner
Ferdinand 7.Jacques-Woodfordhill
8.Henry Wilson-Calibishie
Joseph 9.Bethelmie-Calibishie
10.Chaucer Baron- Laplaine