Controversy looms over questionable shipment of coffee
A major dispute is developing over a decision by the Coffee Industry Board to allow the importation of a quantity of green coffee beans.
The Board is defending its decision in the face of strong criticisms from the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) while the Agriculture Minister has denied any knowledge of the situation.
The matter was brought to public attention Tuesday morning by Opposition spokesman on Agriculture, Senator Anthony Johnson, who asked if the long standing ban on the importation of green coffee beans had been lifted.
Senator Johnson expressed concern that the beans could contain a wide range of diseases which could harm the local coffee industry.
He said the nation needs to know the rational behind the decision to import the coffee beans particularly in light of the recent statement by Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke that the country was poised to produce its best ever crop.
But when contacted Tuesday morning Mr. Clarke said he was not aware of the shipment and would have to discuss the matter with the Coffee Industry Board.
Tuesday afternoon the Board admitted that a shipment of coffee beans was allowed into the island after processors and manufacturers convinced it that there was a scarcity on the local market.
The Board said it gave the green light for the importation with the approval of the Ministry of Agriculture.
It said the coffee from the imported beans is to be sold exclusively to the hospitality sector with strict labeling requirements to ensure that it is not passed off as Jamaican coffee.
Turning to fears about the importation of diseases and pests, Legal Officer of the Coffee Industry Board, Loreen Walker, said the established procedures were followed.
The Board says the container which the coffee came into the island was detained for fumigation after several dead moths were found inside it. www.radiojamaica.com
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