The President of the Government assured today that the Government wants to continue to be a partner of São Jorge's agricultural sector with the aim of overcoming the challenges related to milk production, product quality and the commercial use of the Designation of Protected Origin of São Jorge Cheese.

"With determination, persistence, confidence and hard work it is possible that this sector can further contribute to the generation of wealth and the creation of jobs on this island and in the Region," said Vasco Cordeiro. The government official spoke at the ceremony celebrating the 70th anniversary of Finisterra - Cooperative de Lacticínios do Topo, which currently includes 90 members and 27 workers.

In his speech, the President of the Government stressed the importance of strengthening the professional management skills of all bodies in this chain, from production to the industry and the marketing of products.

Vasco Cordeiro also mentioned another challenge, which is the need to maintain a strong investment in the quality of products, stressing that "one cannot give an inch" on the milk production sector.

"The strengthening of the dairy industry as a sector that is mainly focused on the quality of their products will be beneficial for us," defended the President of the Government. The government official added that the better use of the Designation of Protected Origin of São Jorge Cheese is another challenge that must be overcome, which will also bring advantages to farmers.

"The work we have ahead of us can bring us all together in the task of overcoming these challenges," Vasco Cordeiro said, adding that the new Community Support Framework provides several opportunities to the agricultural sector. However, it requires "a rigorous use of the Community funds that will be available over the next seven years."

In this regard, the government official noted that "the Government will seize the potentialities brought by the next CSF in order to create the conditions to enhance the sustainability, development and competitiveness of the agricultural sector in our Region, including the dairy industry."

Vasco Cordeiro also reiterated that the challenge posed by the change of the milk quota system requires farmers, the dairy industry and the Government "to focus on what depends on us" so that we may be able to boost the competitiveness of the sector.