 In a historic event to commemorate World Forest Day, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development and the Forsage Act Development Committee signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate the co-management and protection of the Edmund Forest. The Edmund Forest is a critical part of the ecosystem in St. Lucia and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. This collaboration aims to ensure that the forest and its trails are managed and protected in a sustainable manner, preserving its natural beauty and supporting the livelihoods of local communities while marking a significant step towards environmental conservation in the region. Chairperson of the Forsage Act Development Committee, Sandra Prospe, reiterated the committee's unwavering commitment to preserving and safeguarding the Edmund Forest. I want to assure the Division of Forests and Land Resources Development and by extension the Government of St. Lucia that we do not take this memorandum of understanding lightly. For us, this shows the level of confidence that you have in us to entrust us the use of part of one of St. Lucia's very important assets. The forest reserve, most specifically the Edmund Forest. We promise to guard it diligently and we'll leave no stones unturned to ensure that there is maximum sustainable use of the resources in a manner that will not harm the environment. The sign in ceremony was attended by key representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Forsage Act Development Committee as well as other sector partners. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Barrymore Feliciae, says the Ministry will continue working together with sector partners to ensure the sustainable management of the country's natural resources. It is especially pleasing that we are here today to take a new approach to protection of our natural resources through providing joint ownership and empowerment to communities to assist with their management and protection. Today is not only about signing of an MOU or about handing over trail management to Forsage Act Development Committee, it is about establishing partnerships, about collaboration and about investing in our people. It is our intention that with the success of this model that we continue to roll out in other communities. Recognizing the crucial role that forests play in sustaining healthy ecosystems, the Ministry of Agriculture remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving and protecting them. In the communications unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, I am Anicia Antoine reporting.