The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Environment stated in Ribeira Grande that the contract works for interventions in rural roads and the expansion of water and power systems to farms, a public investment of 900 thousand Euros, represents the fulfilment of a commitment made to local farmers.

 "It is the fulfilment of a commitment the government has made to Ribeira Grande farmers," said Luís Neto Viveiros. The government official added that these works are included in the Regional Public Works Charter, "being of strategic importance." They will benefit more than one hundred farms and nearly 700 hectares of pastures.

 Speaking during a visit to the ongoing works in the municipality of Ribeira Grande, Luís Neto Viveiros pointed out that the improvement of the roads managed by IROA falls within "the policies pursued by the Government to improve accessibility in the agricultural sector, boost the competitiveness of farms and enhance safety at work."

 On the occasion, the Regional Secretary for Agriculture noted the good progress of the construction works of Mina Road in the Agrarian Planning Perimeter of Santana/Rabo de Peixe, João Nateiro Road and Moio Road, both located in the Agrarian Perimeter of São Miguel Central Zone.

 "The works are progressing at a very good pace and will probably be completed before the deadlines," said Luís Neto Viveiros.

 In addition to the works on the three roads, the Regional Secretary also visited the construction works of the water reservoir of Fenais da Ajuda in Estrada Velha Road and three works for the provision of power supply to farms.

 Currently, the Government of the Azores has 23 ongoing works to support agriculture in the archipelago or in the process of being awarded, representing a total investment of nearly four million Euros.

 This year, the Regional Government will start 71 contracts works for the provision of power supply to dairy farms to be carried out until the end of the current legislative period, an overall investment of 1.8 million Euros, thus contributing to the improvement of farmers' income and the competitiveness of the sector.