The government has allocated $100 million to support the recovery of the Banana and Plantain Industry, following devastation by Hurricane Melissa.

Agriculture Minister Floyd Green noted that the Banana and Plantain Industry is vital to Jamaica’s food security.

He was speaking today at the Banana Board’s Hurricane Melissa Recovery Programme handover ceremony in St. James.

Based on recent assessments, about 4,170 hectares of banana and plantain were damaged during the Category 5 storm.

This affected about 7000 farmers, who suffered over 90% crop loss.

Mr. Green explained that the support includes provision of fertilizer.

Concern has been raised about the reduction in supply of the fruits and calls for importation.

Mr. Green noted that importation is not an option, citing plant health risks and the possibility of introducing diseases that could wipe out local banana and plantain trees.