The role of producers' organisations in the successful operation of FAS in Malta : lessons learnt and future perspectives

Abstract

The Maltese ministry responsible for agriculture until recently offered a free of charge extension service. In view of the need for structured advisory facilities, and the risk that farmers resort to unofficial sources of information, the same ministry has taken the initiative to regulate, monitor and support this service by the relevant legal framework and EAFRD measures in the Rural Development Programme for the period 2007-2013 (Ministry for Rural Affairs and the Environment, 2007). The newly set up private Farm Advisory Service (FAS) providers can be considered as the latest development in the provision of institutionalised advisory and extension services in Malta. Their role is crucial in empowering producers to face the challenges and exploit opportunities brought about as a result of Malta’s membership in the EU. Although Maltese rural society has a rich history and experience within the cooperative movement, the formation, and fiscal realities of producer organisations has so far been limited and problematic. The intent of this paper is to identify some of the constraints and highlight possible mitigation options that could serve as recommendations for future action.