THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY

The Impact of Jamaica Agricultural Sector on the Economy. Jessica Williams 18090560 Hylton Robinson 11090013 Shanor Outar 11075125 BSAD371: Business Research Methods Dr. Magilee Daley June 29, 2012 Northern Caribbean University

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY TABLE OF CONTENTS

Abstract...4

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION Background to the Study....5 Statement of the Problem........................................................................................................6 Purpose of the Study...6 Research Questions.........6 Conceptual Framework...7 Significance of the Study....8 Limitations.......8 Delimitations9 Definition of Key Terms..10

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW.....12

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY Research Design.......21 Population Selection.22 Sample Selection...22 Instrumentation.....22 Data Collection Procedure....23 Reliability and Validity23 Data Analysis Approach...24

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY

Ethical Issues...25 Timeline...26 Budget.27 CONCLUSIONS.....28 REFERENCES... 29 APPENDIX....30

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Abstract

The Jamaican economy is evaluated and being overviewed as a dependent economy, in which, it is proven that 60% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) goes to debt and other liabilities that is owed by the country. The Agriculture; value added (% of GDP) in Jamaica was last reported at 6.29 in 2010, according to a World Bank report released in 2011. The Agriculture; value added (% of GDP) in Jamaica was 6.18 in 2009, according to a World Bank report, published in 2010. The Agriculture; value added (% of GDP) in Jamaica was reported at 5.39 in 2008, according to the World Bank. (http://www.tradingeconomics.com/jamaica/agriculture-value-added-percentof-gdp-wb-data.html). Thus provides us with prove to illustrate that agriculture plays a vital role in our economy. Today, Jamaica struggles economically due to its operations and activities that they have part take (International Monetary Fund, IMF) that has help to destroy the economy. Jamaica contains a low flow of inflow money sent due to the high rate of brain drain in Jamaica. Agriculture can help to enhance the productivity of the countrys economy by providing a lot of contributions and improvement within the economy. They can assist in the development of the Agricultural Sector to provide benefits to the economic structure.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Chapter 1: Introduction Background to the Problem

According to an article by The Jamaican Gleaner it states that, While agriculture accounting for almost six per cent of Jamaicas gross domestic product and providing direct employment for some 228,000 Jamaicans, the agricultural sector continues to underperform, facing as it does, significant challenges. The limited access to financing, the high cost of capital, soaring labor and energy costs, inadequate research and development are just some of the problems facing farmers. Then there is the devastating impact of natural disasters, pest infestation, deplorable road conditions and praedial larceny. These are some of the many issues the farming sector says must be addressed and arrested urgently if Jamaica is to realise anywhere near its full potential. With the annual loss to praedial larceny put at a conservative J$5 billion in 2010, and loss to poor post-harvesting measures estimated at the same amount, it begs the question as to whether agriculture needs a state of emergency. A review of Jamaicas trade deficit with its regional neighbours and North American partners would suggest that such a measure is long overdue and the powers that be, even if they are unwilling to admit it, are aware. We want to cut down on waste. We waste approximately J$5 billion in value of agriculture every year due to post-harvest losses, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Dr Christopher Tufton told greenhouse farmers at the Cecil Charlton Hall in Mandeville on Thursday. Government has a responsibility to correct that, but to correct means that you have to standardize processes, and doing so we are going to make some changes, Tufton continued.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY

Addressing the same function, Webster McPherson, an agronomist employed to the Ministry of Agriculture, declared that the knowledge gap between technical experts and those in need of their expertise was largely responsible for the failure to maximize production and productivity levels.

Purpose of the Study The purpose of the study is to identify the importance, contribution and the many challenges that the Jamaica agricultural sector is facing. This research will also outline some specific approaches to correct the difficulties that the sector is facing. Research Questions Proceeding from the previously mentioned that the sector has being highlighted on numerous occasions (the sectors is often seen as a forgotten; as individuals tends to move away from it. Agriculture is often stigmatized as a degrading profession by the Jamaican people) as a matter that requires urgent attention in order to remain alive hence increase production. Therefore there are four guiding questions that will be explored and answered in this research. They are as follows:

1. What is the importance of the Jamaica agricultural sector? 2. What are challenges that the sector is facing? 3. What are the solutions/ cures to the challenges? 4. What motivational techniques can be adopted encourage the younger generation in agriculture?

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Conceptual Framework

Over 60 years of knowledge, special skills, different perspectives, varying expectations, diverse experiences, and an assortment of work styles make up what is really an effective agricultural sector. The sector has contributed to over 6% of Jamaicas Gross Domestic Product (GDP), therefore keeping agriculture alive would have far way more benefits to the countrys economy hence foster growth and development. In order to achieve this goal every single Jamaican will have to be a part of the vision (patriotic to brand Jamaica, market regulation, and report crime against praedial larceny). According to Jamaica Information Service (2012) more than 228,000 families lives are affected each year through the act of larceny. Between the period of 2010 and 2011 larceny has cost the country approximately 5 billion dollars. This then contributed to the decline in Jamaica collections of revenue from farmers. Former minister of agriculture Dr. Christopher Tufton had put into place some very stringent measures and fines for praedial, this was done in an effort to minimize or eliminate theft in agriculture. Similarly, Chuck, Clarke, & Dalley (2009) added that without immediate and drastic plans the sector is on its way to failure. The study conducted by the Society for Jamaica Agricultural Sector (2008) described furthur more challenges that the section is facing. It speaks to the habit of jamaicans preffence of taste and that jamaican need to eat more locally proiduce. This speaks to the fact that there is a vast amout of importation of foreign agricultural products that are identical to that of which we produce here in jamaica. This simple means that the sector is facing very stiff competition from foreigners. It then went on to speak about the natural disaster, this factor has created alarming losses to jamaican farmers and the economy. In an effort to combat this challenge refference were made

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to plant belts of trees around crops, the trees will act as win break and as barriers should their be soil erossion. Farmers are encouraged to build properly constructed coop and pens that will withstand wind or water in case of hurricane. Significance of the Study The agricultural sector is facing a turbulent time and it requires the attention of everyone in order to correct the current situation. The discoveries of this study will help in the development of visions and strategies to effectively restore the sector. Government will also be able to encourage individuals to cooperate in developing strategies and implementing changes that enhance the productivity of the sector. According to Harrison (2007), those who utilize foresight, acknowledge the impending change and make timely adjustments will likely come out ahead. And, in an increasingly transactional, commoditized business world, where people are often your foremost differentiating asset, ensuring the success of your human capital strategy is essential to overall business success. The significance of the study is to provide Jamaica at large with a better understanding of the factors and trends impacting the upliftment of Jamaican farmers. Familiarizing oneself with the perspectives, needs and influencers of the key generations can help in molding an effective country. If implemented, the information found in this research can help government and farmers to create an environment where they can be profitable. Limitations of the Study The completion of this research may be challenged by a number of limitations. The period designated to conduct the research will be a limiting factor. We may experience a few challenges in conducting a thorough research, since the allotted time may be inadequate for the

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nature and complexity of the study at hand. It is expected that another limitation of the study will be the sample size selected. Although all possible human effort will be made to ensure that the sample is a true representation of the population, if there are any technicalities, misused procedures or unforeseen activities these may affect the degree to which the sample is correct. Additionally, financial constraints may disallow us from extending our study to areas outside of our immediate geographical location, and may also restrict us from using various types of research methodologies and instruments that may be useful. Delimitations The scope of the research will be narrowed down in an attempt to combat the limitations of the study. The delimitations of a study are those characteristics that limit the scope (define the boundaries) of the research as determined by the conscious exclusionary and inclusionary decisions that were made throughout the development of the proposal. Among these are the choice of objectives and questions, variables of interest, and alternative theoretical perspectives that could have been adopted. The first limiting step was the choice of problem itself; implicit are other, related problems that could have been chosen but were rejected or screened off from view. Other delimiting boundaries that the researchers have set for the study are as follows: primary data collection will not be done because the scope of the topic is more expansive than we are able to do, instead, secondary data will be used; certain literature will not be reviewed because they are outdated and their validity is questionable; the entire population will not be studied, instead a representative sample will be used; and certain methodological procedures will

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not be used such as interviewing individuals from each generation because there is sufficient secondary data on that already.

Definition of Terms 1. Praedial Larceny This is the stealing of agricultural product that is crops and animal. (Getten & Gardiner) 2. Cohesion - Connection and unity, but does not mean conformity. (Watson, 2010) 3. Compensation - any reward or payment given to a person for services performed. (Armstrong & Appelbaum, 2008) 4. Demographic - Studies of a population based on factors such as age, race, sex, economic status, level of education, income level and employment, among others. (Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/demographics.asp#ixzz1uaUafDhz) 5. Diversification - The concept that organizations are becoming more heterogeneous in terms of gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and other diverse groups. (Robbins & Judge, 2010) 6. Population the larger group from which individuals are selected to participate in a study. A population can be defined as including all people or items with the characteristic 7. Reliability - Reliability is concerned with the accuracy of the actual measuring instrument or procedure and their ability to give consistent results over time. (Colorado State University) 8. Sample - A sample is a subset of a population that has attitudes, opinions, habits or characteristics representative of the population that you want to study. The

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representatives selected for a study whose characteristics exemplify the larger group from which they were selected (West Dunbartonshire Council, 2012) 9. Sampling - The process of selecting a number of individuals for a study in such a way that the individuals represent the larger group from which they were selected. 10. Selection - Selection consists of the processes involved in choosing from applicants a suitable candidate to fill a post (Business Case Studies). 11. Validity Validity refers to the degree to which a study accurately reflects or assesses the specific concept that the researcher is attempting to measure. (Colorado State University) 12. Values Basic convictions that a specific mode of conduct or end-state of existence is personally or socially preferable to an opposite or converse mode of conduct or end-state of existence (Robbins & Judge, 2010)

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Chapter 2: Literature Review

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Agriculture is viewed as a practice of rearing animals and cultivation of the soil to produce crops, fruits, vegetables etc.; this provides a local market within countries which can lead to international trade. Agricultural Sector plays a vital role which has create an impact on the Jamaican economy; it has provide contribution towards the growth of the Jamaican economy, it being faced with major challenges in the growth of the country, how can the improvement of the agricultural sector impact on the lives of the citizens and the motivational techniques can be adopted to encourage the younger generation in agriculture. The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of Jamaican Agricultural Sector on the economy.

To what extent can agriculture contribute towards the growth of the economy?

Agricultural sector allows agriculture to provide employment for unemployed individuals within the country. Local farmers are able to rear their animals and cultivate and reap their crops, fruits, vegetables knowing that from their hard work they will receive their income. Farmers can employ individuals to assist in their work in case there is a deadline that must be met. Employment rate in Jamaica is very low, thus result in the small labor force having to pay a large percentage of their income to tax. Table below indicates the employment rate in Jamaica.

As the table in appendix table 01, indicates the unemployment rate has increase from 2011 to 2012 from 12.8% October 2011 to 14.1% for January 2012 thus illustrates that through the contribution of agriculture providing employment can increase the employment rate and decrease the unemployment rate thus brings forth a productive contribution to the economy. The agricultural sector currently contributes 5.6 per cent to the Jamaican economy and employs and

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employs approximately 18.9% of the Jamaican labour force. However there are tremendous opportunities to expand production in both domestic and export markets. (According to JAMPRO, 2012). The contribution of agriculture providing employment helps to increase an individuals per capita income; per capita income is a measure of the amount of money that is being earned per person in a certain area. Income per capita can apply to the average per-person income for a city, region or country and is used as a means of evaluating the living conditions and quality of life in different areas. It can be calculated for a country by dividing the country's national income by its population. (http://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/income-percapita.asp#axzz1yP7qjqCT). For example Tom lives with his baby mother of two children 7 and 11 years old; he inherit the job of assisting the farming in cultivating soil to produce fruits and vegetables. Tom was unable to send his children to school but due to the advantage of earning a work that provides income his income per capita has increase allowing his children to attend school and supply to all needs that is needed for his family. Being able to achieve the goal of having an increase of income per capita can result to contributing of increasing the standard of living within the economy. Standard of living is define as having enough wealth available to supply any need or wants upon an individual or community. Jamaica is known for having a low standard of living due to the poverty rate in the economy, due to the rate Jamaica is surveyed as an economy with a low standard of living. Agriculture having the advantages of providing employment and increasing ones income per capita income can reduce the poverty level and increase the standard of living on an individual as well as the countrys economy. Thus allows individual to obtain whatever their heart desires. Lowering standard of living, agricultural sector ultimately contributes to the lowering of poverty level within the economy. Poverty is defined as

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being extremely poor; not enough wealth to supply or support and individuals needs. To illustrate, John is an unemployed individual that lives in a one bedroom, he has three children, in which, he cannot support to even provide food for the children when they are hungry. Through the contributions of the Agricultural Sector poverty can be decreased to a very low rate thus helps individuals within the poverty life as well as the economy of the country.

Due to the low percentage of establishing and investing Agriculture in Jamaica it was evaluated that tourism in Jamaica provides the largest income of foreign exchange, if government were to invest in local farming the Agricultural Sector will be able to pool a large sum in contribution to the foreign exchange income within the economy of the country.

Having the opportunity of the Agricultural Sector providing employment helps individual to have financial independence thus provides the benefit of lowering poverty level. Within the community employed individuals are able to come together to assist in the rural development within the community. rural development such as fixing the road, fixing schools within the community that needs to be upgraded or fixed, contribute to homeless shelters etc. thus provide the contribution of environmental protection. When individuals are earning their income thus lowers crime within communities due to that fact that there is no need to rob individuals.

All of the following contributions of the Agricultural Sector contribution to employment, increase in ones income per capita, increase in standard of living, lowering poverty all allows the economys Gross Domestic Product (GDP) came to a low percentage so that it can be suitable for every citizen within the economy. Things will be affordable allowing economy to be at a stable rate and can be in categorization of other countrys economy rates.

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What are the major challenges that an Agricultural Sector may face in the growth of a country? There are quite a number of factors that are affecting the Jamaica Agricultural sector. These are challenges such as natural Disaster, Stiff foreign competition, market scarcity, inflation (increase in farming supply cost), technological challenges, land space, poor market regulation, mismanagement and the number one killer praedial larceny. Jamaica is a tropical climate country and we are just in the belt of the Gulf of Mexico which makes us pruned Natural disaster such as storm and hurricane. Every year Jamaica farmers suffer the loss of millions of dollars. Animals are killed, chicken and pig farms structures are damaged and the washing away of crops from farms makes it very difficult for the farmer and also for consumers and the economy itself. The effect of the natural disaster is estimated to cost the country at least 0.05% of the sector contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). When there is a national disaster island wide it then forces and foster the importation of foreign agricultural produces. This then resulted in an increase in the countrys importation bill. Natural disaster such as drought is really plagues that is affecting the sector and restrict its full potential to strive. St. Elizabeth which is labeled as the breadbasket parish is facing very difficult drought which present a barrier in them (farmers) producing at their peak. Farmers in that parish cannot rely on the water supply hence they are scared when planting. Another challenge that the sector of agriculture faces is stiff foreign competition. If you should check the Jamaican markets and super market you will be most frightened to see the amount of foreign agricultural produce that are there. And these produce are those of the same kind that are grown and produced in Jamaica. Now this really makes life hard for Jamaican

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farmers and the agricultural. This posed stiff competition for the local market plus the prices are pretty much cheaper that local while at the same time the quality are pretty much impressive. It is really difficult for farmers to compete with price against their foreign competitors. For example a country like America have the resources, technology and the land space to mass produce hence they are able to sell at lower rate. While farmers in Jamaica are faced with expensive farming operating cost and lack of proper equipment. If you should look at the food that are sold in the hotel industry you will realize that almost every bit are imported from overseas especially from Miami. The hotels here Jamaica rather to buy form the foreigners some will argue that it is cheaper than local, better quality while some will say that their foreign partners are more reliable suppliers than those of Jamaica so in the interest of their business and the hotel sector it is best. Lack of Technology is really a problem that the sector is experiences, in this day and age it is almost impossible to compete using just a few technology with someone who is using technology in every aspect of production, from planting to packaging. Jamaica farmers are taking days to do the job that those of other country with technology is using hours to complete and done with more precision. One of the problems with the sector and the technology is the cost to acquire the equipment. The cost to gather them might be just too high for the local investors. If the local investor could have access to these technologies then they will be able to be better reliable suppliers, meet market demand hence competing in the market at a better stand. Poor market regulation will only cause farmers pain and a fallen sector. Quite too often we see where there is shortage of a product in on side of the country which results in high price

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and a glut in that same product on the other side of the island. This is so because there is no market regulation that will space the product. With market regulation what will happen is that farmers east will plant a certain type of crops example only only carrot, Irish, onion, ginger and those from the central will plant a different type such as cabbage, calloo and yam. Those from western will plant something different. By doing this there will be some sort of equilibrium in the market. There should be a middle leg when there is a market regulation where persons that have produce will come and log in what they have. This leg/agency will make the available produce known to buyers and make buyers order known to farmers. I real life example of this is to look at your neighbor who rear chicken, she might have that fridge loaded with chicken for week. This is because she cannot find the market to dispose the chicken, while you have a buyer who will do anything to get some chicken to buy. Such transaction to make between the two is impossible because they do not know about each other. However with that agency in place the buyer would make a request that chicken is needed and that seller would logged that chicken are available. Mismanagement affects the sector today and has been over the years, a lot of managers mishandled the production in this sector. Some cooked the books and some simple do not know how to balance the accounts. Manager of quite a number of farms do not seek aggressively to find the right market for the produces and seek to be very reliable suppliers which resulted in their business not been productive enough. Every year over 228,200 families are affected by praedial larceny. This is really one of the sector greatest problem, approximately 5 billion dollars in loss accrues annual because of this

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act. To make this clearer I want to use Hylgebinson Farm to explain. For the financial year ending 2012 ten bore Ram was stolen from the farm prices ranges from twenty to eighty thousand dollars resulting in a JMD600, 000.00 losses. Three cows were stolen valued JMD2500.00 in totally. This is just the loss of one small farm. Praedial larceny is really a menace to the sector as it ripping off the farmers and making some disheartened and dont want to farm anymore. Because of this problem farmers are forced to take on excessive security cost. A lot of large farmers have to build very high fencing and cover on their pig pens, some install security cameras, and some have to employ security personnel to take care of their affairs. It was just of recent that it came on the news where a farmer was injury by praedials after he realizes that they were stealing his livestocks, it was calculated to be about six hundred thousand dollars in losses. Lack of capital also plays a critical part in the challenges that the sector is facing. There are farmers who wants to mass produce or to improve on their farms however due to financial constrain they are unable to improve. Without adequate financing then farmers can only produce within a certain limitation, however with proper finance farmers can better able to compete with their foreign competitor with both price and quality. Without the money farmers are not able to protect themselves from any mishaps. They are not able to properly plant belts of trees to act as wind brakes, proper fencing from animals, water supply and other security means to properly protect their investment. The lack of financing really hurts the sector; it stifles the true potentials and hence minimizing its profitability. How can the improvement of the Agricultural Sector impact on the lives of the citizens?

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Government needs to invest more within the Agricultural Sector so that the sector there can be improvement within the economy. Improvement such as creating a competitive market thus provides employment and individuals being able to support their family. It provides improvement on employment, increase in ones income per capita allowing individuals to support their needs of food, clothing and shelter, it provides the availability of individuals obtaining financial independence meaning that they are able to supply their needs upon demand. It provides the improvement of community development knowing that individuals are able to provide financial aid to push forth any development or fixing of things, roads or even school within the community. Thus helps to build the standard of living within the economy having individuals living free and comfortable. It provides the improvement of containing a wide market allowing customers the ability to chose any type of product from whom ever their heart desires. Having a wide market pushes forth a marketing segment of production which indicates that suppliers will not put prices at high but to a low price that comforts both the suppliers and the customers within the market. What are the motivational techniques that can be adopted to encourage the younger generation in Agriculture? Government can implement a business plan for the Agricultural Sector which entails the steps prospective farmers can feel motivated to be a part of the Agricultural Sector. A business plan can include an acquired capital that can be utilized as collateral for the loan to help push forth farmers to produce goods and supply goods to the customers within the community or even within the country, thus can also leads to exporting of goods.

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Government can provide access towards capital, due to high prices and increase in inflation and interest rate, it is extremely hard to obtain loan from a bank or financial institutions to help push forth prospective farmers. Providing access of capital to prospective farmers can push forth their business whether its the rearing of animals or growing fruits and vegetable to supply their customers. After having the ability to provide access to capital can provide a competitive market through a competitive market suppliers are going to provide various sales techniques to contribute to the productivity. These techniques includes lowering the prices so build customer list and provide more positive contribution to profit of the supplier.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Chapter 3: Research Methodology

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Research is a methodical investigation that inquires about the appropriate collection of information that is utilized to solve problems, enhance decision making, increase of ones knowledge. In conducting the research, required methodology were utilized to gain effective and accurate required data.

This chapter will elaborate on the abstract formation of the survey, strategy utilized in selection of individuals within the Agricultural Sector and sample from others that are prospective farmers (which are the population and samples), instruments utilized, data collection and analysis procedures, ethical issues and timeline. All requirements of research are entailed and operated by a specific plan; these plans are further detailed and discussed.

Research Design

The research design was created in an effective manner that would provide the outcome of obtaining informative and beneficial information, cost effective, timeless and accurate information. The research was designed to facilitate a straight forward aim that allows it to be flexible to grant opportunities in views of various different aspects of the problem.

In conclusion of this research descriptive research approach was utilized; it provides the assistance of describing the system of a specific situations or problems, it outlines the description of programs or services that the research is informing about, the living conditions of a specific community as well as describing attitudes towards the Agricultural Sector in Jamaica. The researcher measured the means of attaining the information; the accessibility and skills of the team conducting the research; the way in which selected means of obtaining

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information will be structured and the reasoning leading to the selection; the time available for research; and the cost factor relating to research, that is, the finance available for the purpose. The research design preferred ensured that the evidence attained is enabled by the researcher to answer the initial research questions as unambiguously as possible. The research is a pure research since it involves developing and testing hypotheses that are intellectually challenging to the researcher but that may or may not have practical application at the present time. Population Selection There is a possibility that it can be assumed that in such investigation when all matters are enclosed no aspect of chances left and highest accuracy is achieved. For this research the population was Government Agencies and local farmers of Jamaica. Sample Selection Due to the determination of population and its relevance to the research, a sample design was enforced to facilitate the researcher in attaining conclusions of the large group. Having a sample (sub-sets of a population) allows the researcher to obtain accurate evaluations of the impact of Agriculture of the larger population. Sample members are randomly chosen due to the observation of the main targets to be surveyed, participants to be surveyed and an evaluation of sample size. Instrumentation The tools that are utilized in the collection of data and information for this research were instruments that are valid, reliable and sufficient to provide answers to the research questions. The findings of the research were the foundations on the type of information collected, and the data collected was entirely dependent upon the questions asked. The main instruments used in

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this study were the internet, books, journals, Government Agencies, articles, interviews, questionnaires and Northern Caribbean University Library. Data Collection Procedure The purpose of this research is to outline the impact of the agriculture sector on the Jamaican economy. Therefore it is important to discuss the contributions, challenges and its improvements on the economy. Due to the format of the research outline it is recommended to utilized secondary data to obtain information, this data will provide accurate information resulting a successful guide on the result of this research. Through the development of the research design, successive steps were utilized to obtain the data from the implications have been take and provide conclusion for this study. A ll of the following contemplations had to be overviewed by the researcher through the process of the research; contemplations are the nature of investigation, objectives, capacity of this investigation, financial aspects, time, completion, accurately of the data collection procedure. Secondary data is not only viewed as number but it includes information and factual evidences collected by organizations or individuals other than the users. Data was obtain through data tools such as journals, book, newspaper articles, reports, the internet plays role due to the fact that it is the leader in the source of data. It provides a wide pool of data collection providing reports, journals along with other instruments that were utilized to assist us with informative information pertain to the objective of this research. Reliability and Validity Mechrens & Lehman, 1987, defines reliability as the degree of consistency between two measures of the same thing. In other words reliability focuses on the defendant of research tools

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to provide accurate information on the results, these tools includes questionnaires, interviews, surveys etc. Borg, White & Worthern, 1993 defines validity as the degree to which they accomplish the purpose for which they are being used. Validity includes the overall experimental concept and establishes whether all results being attained is in coordination of the requirements of the scientific research method. Due to cautious investigation of data attained and the utilization of tools utilized it outlines the high level of confidence that our information obtained is reliable. With regards to validity, the researchers can concluded that findings in data which was apart of the research were valid. The research objectives and questions are the test of whether or not the research truly measured that which it was intended to measure. Moreover, the data that was collected during the research was adequate to support and answer the research questions effective. The gathering of information was important as it stands to prove the importance of this study, which an individual will not view as irrelevant to the research. The researchers are ignited with the success of the procedures and analysis approaches that was taken for the collection of data, hence, providing validity, which highlighted the specific concept that the researchers attempted to measure. Data Analysis Approach The succeeding gathering of data provides the overall analysis of the data. In our research, data analysis contains numerous challenges contributions and improvements surrounding various techniques of facts and approaches to the objective of the research. Handling and analyzing data various closely related procedures were performed with indication of the

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abridgment of gathering data and categorized in a way that answers are being provided upon each question that is being asked. Through analyzing this data of this research The Statistical initive of Jamaica was utilized through its beneficial statistical analysis on qualitative data. It was very understandable, accurate and efficient. Ethical Issues The importance of ethics plays a vital role when carryout the performing of a research, it is important that ethics is present. Ethical conduct must be performed by both respondent and the researcher, on the other hand they were other ethical issues in regards to the research. In regards to the collection of data, through the demand of information by researcher this can create pressure or place anxiety on the participant. Therefore, we seek the approval from respondents due to the fact that it would be unethical to obtain data without the respondent having no knowledge of the research as well as the researcher. The importance of placing the information that you are seeking directly to the objective of the research, all the respondent to feel comfortable answering specific questions , with the knowledge of why the information is important to the research, the purpose, the expectation of the participation and the effect that can be placed upon them. This excludes all unethical practices and unethical individuals from the operation of conducting the research. Providing the research with a fair, true and ethical conduct performed in conducting this research. Ethical standard of confidentiality to participants is placed into consideration in conducting this research. Participants can feel free to provide information on any requested questions, thus allows the researcher to obtain accurate information. For example through conducting this research many farmers were not comfortable in providing information on wealth,

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their products therefore the researcher keeps it on a confidential revel and ask questions that will be relevant to the research. Many view certain type of information confidential and if the researcher to ask certain questions it is viewed as an invasion of privacy. Therefore, it is recommended to keep on a strict confidential level, which also includes participants of the research to be kept anonymous. Due to the fact that it is unethical to identify ones reponses along with their names and information obtained. Ethical standard of avoidance of biased information was taken into consideration through conducting this research. Bias plays a negative role on the ending results of the research therefore it is strictly prohibited from the research. It conceals accurate information which contains a negative impact on the results. It is unethical therefore researchers did their best in isolating themselves from this unethical practice. Plagiarism is strictly prohibited from this research, all information obtained from secondary data informing the sources that information has been taken from. It is unethical therefore it is not practiced in this research. Timeline The completion of this research was conducted through a required timeline of (3-6) three to six weeks, team was established in prior to the due date of this research for the purpose of being proactive in conducting this research in a manner able way within its completion time that was informed upon. Upon the information of the group we decided on four topics that could be utilized then seek information on that specific topic; whichever topic gathered the most information was chosen then seek the approval in selection of the topic. Upon the approval we have selected the topic The impact of Jamaica Agricultural Sector on the Economy.

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Upon the first week each member of the team was placed on the categorization of each obtaining a sub-topic that they will seek information on that specific subtopic. The objective was to gather all possible accurate through any tools (questionnaire, survey, interviews or the utilization of the internet). Second week involves placing all information together and categorizing all accurate information under their correct sub-heading or topic. Through information all sources were cited and reference and placed in their correct APA format that it must be corrected upon. After chapter one was completed, each member was instructed to a sub-topic to complete thus provide a rapid completion within the week. Third week involves the completion of chapter 2 (two) and chapter 3 (three) through each member being instructed to sub-topics of the chapters, each carries the responsibility of proof reading, editing and reviewing the assembled research to ensure that the research objectives have been met. All information was submitted to Dr.Daley via email. Budget The researchs budget occurred when the scope, nature, limitations, and issues of the study were acknowledged. As a means of making availability of a estimate of expenditures and a framework within which to function for the research, a budget was established. The purpose of the budget was to establish the cost constraint for the research, provide a basis for evaluating if we have used our financial resources prudently, and obtain maximum output from our monetary input. A total of $1,500 was spent in the investigation of this research, it was evaluated through fare expenses, food expenses, phone cards to call participants to obtain approval to conduct research and a visit to government agencies. Therefore it is within the budgeted objectives that were set by the team members to conduct the research.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY CONCLUSION

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Jamaica is a third world country that contains a struggling economy due to poor leadership and wrong decisions being made to facilitate the country. Jamaica can invest within their local market to help the productivity of the economy; local market such as the Agricultural Sector within the county. Various contributions can be made such as increase in employment rate, increase in the standard of living within the economy, increase in ones income per capita providing financial independence to support their family and needs upon demand, it provides environmental protection, lowering the poverty rate within the economy, all includes the positive contribution to the economys GDP. There are various challenges that are being made, such as Government policies, theft of goods within the Agricultural Sector, natural disaster destroying all products, lack of capital to push forth prospective farmers, lack of competitive market can allow suppliers to place any high price on goods and services without the conscious effect of customers (market oriented employers). These problems need to be addressed to help in the enhancement of the countrys economy growth. Improvements and motivational techniques can be viewed and addressed in the growth of the economy. Government need to seek the advantages of the Agricultural Sector along with its contributions and implement strategies to invest within the segment to provide productivity towards the countrys economy growth.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY REFERENCES

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Lincoln, Y. S. and Guba E. (1985), Naturalistic Inquiry, Beverly Hills: Sage Publications. Maxwell J. (1992) Understanding and Validity in Qualitative Research, Harvard Educational center Review Fall, 1992. Maxwell J. A,(1996) Qualitative Research Design-An Interactive Approach, SAGE
Mehrens, W. A. & Lehmann, I. J. (1987). Using standardized tests in education. New York: Longman.

Shuttleworth, M (2008) Bobo Doll Experiment-Experiment Resource.Com Trochim, W.M.K.(2006) Knowledge Base-Research Methods, Web Center for Social Research Methods.

Worthen, B. R., Borg, W. R., and White, K. R. (1993). Measurement and evaluation in the school. NY: Longman.

http://www.tradingeconomics.com/jamaica/gdp-per-capita-us-dollar-wb-data.html

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APPENDIX

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ITEM

2010 January April July October January

2011 July

2012 October January

TOTAL POPULATION Population 14 years and 2,001,600 2,002,500 2,004,200 2,005,600 2,006,900 2,008,100 2,009,100 2,009,400 over Labour Force 1,261,600 1,241,800 1,255,200 1,240,100 1,269,900 1,235,400 1,248,500 1,260,600 Employed Labour Force 1,091,600 1,087,700 1,109,300 1,091,100 1,106,500 1,083,600 1,088,900 1,083,400 Unemployed Labour Force 169,900 154,100 145,900 149,000 163,500 151,800 159,600 177,200 Outside The Labour Force 740,000 760,800 749,000 765,500 737,000 772,700 760,700 748,800 Employment Rate 86.5 87.6 88.4 88.0 87.1 87.7 87.2 85.9 Unemployment Rate 13.5 12.4 11.6 12.0 12.9 12.3 12.8 14.1 Job Seeking Rate 8.6 7.7 6.9 7.3 8.4 7.7 8.0 8.9 Percentage of Population 25.8 25.8 25.8 25.8 25.8 25.8 25.8 25.8 under 14 years Percentage of Population 14 74.2 74.2 74.2 74.2 74.2 74.2 74.2 74.2 years & over Percentage of Population 14 37.0 38.0 37.4 38.2 36.7 38.5 37.9 37.3 + Outside LF Labour Force as a % age of 46.7 46.0 46.4 45.9 46.9 45.6 46.1 46.5 Total Population Labour Force as a % age of 63.0 62.0 62.6 61.8 63.3 61.5 62.1 62.7 Population 14+ MALE 1,330,100 1,330,700 1,331,800 1,332,700 1,333,500 1,334,400 1,335,000 1,335,200 973,700 689,900 617,600 72,300 283,800 89.5 10.5 6.9 26.8 974,100 681,600 618,500 63,100 292,500 90.7 9.3 6.2 26.8 974,900 690,000 634,200 55,800 284,900 91.9 8.1 5.0 26.8 975,600 681,600 620,200 61,400 294,000 91.0 9.0 5.8 26.8 976,200 685,400 620,400 65,000 290,800 90.5 9.5 6.7 26.8 976,800 680,800 620,000 60,800 296,000 91.1 8.9 6.0 26.8 977,300 689,600 624,500 65,100 287,700 90.6 9.4 6.1 26.8 977,400 686,900 614,800 72,100 290,500 89.5 10.5 6.9 26.8

BOTH SEXES 2,698,800 2,700,100 2,702,300 2,704,100 2,705,800 2,707,600 2,708,900 2,709,300

TOTAL POPULATION Population 14 years and over Labour Force Employed Labour Force Unemployed Labour Force Outside The Labour Force Employment Rate Unemployment Rate Job Seeking Rate Percentage of Population under 14 years

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Percentage of Population 14 years & over Percentage of Population 14 + Outside LF Labour Force as a % age of Total Population Labour Force as a % age of Population 14+

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73.2 29.1 51.9 70.9

73.2 30.0 51.2 70.0

73.2 29.2 51.8 70.8

73.2 30.1 51.1 69.9

73.2 29.8 51.4 70.2

73.2 30.3 51.0 69.7

73.2 29.4 51.7 70.6

73.2 29.7 51.4 70.3

TOTAL POPULATION Population 14 years and 1,027,900 1,028,400 1,029,300 1,030,000 1,030,700 1,031,300 1,031,800 1,032,000 over Labour Force 571,700 560,200 565,200 558,500 584,500 554,600 558,900 573,700 Employed Labour Force 474,000 469,200 475,100 470,900 486,100 463,600 464,400 468,600 Unemployed Labour Force 97,600 91,000 90,100 87,600 98,500 91,000 94,500 105,100 Outside The Labour Force 456,200 468,300 464,100 471,500 446,200 476,700 473,000 458,300 Employment Rate 82.9 83.8 84.1 84.3 83.2 83.6 83.1 81.7 Unemployment Rate 17.1 16.2 15.9 15.7 16.8 16.4 16.9 18.3 Job Seeking Rate 10.8 9.6 9.4 9.2 10.4 9.8 10.4 11.4 Percentage of Population 24.9 24.9 24.9 24.9 24.9 24.9 24.9 under 14 years Percentage of Population 14 75.1 75.1 75.1 75.1 75.1 75.1 75.1 years & over Percentage of Population 14 44.4 45.5 45.1 45.8 43.3 46.2 45.8 + Outside LF Labour Force as a % age of 41.8 40.9 41.2 40.7 42.6 40.4 40.7 Total Population Labour Force as a % age of 55.6 54.5 54.9 54.2 56.7 53.8 54.2 Population 14+ Note: Data for January 2012, October 2011 and July 2011 have been compiled using new End of Year 2011 population estimates Last Updated May 8, 2012 TABLE 01 EMPLOYMENT RATE IN JAMAICA 24.9 75.1 44.4 41.8 55.6

FEMALE 1,368,700 1,369,400 1,370,500 1,371,400 1,372,300 1,373,200 1,373,900 1,374,100

MAIN LABOUR FORCE INDICATORS 2010-2012

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Retrieved from: http://www.tradingeconomics.com/jamaica/agriculture-value-added-annual-percentgrowth-wb-data.html

AGRICULTURE; VALUE ADDED (ANNUAL % GROWTH) IN JAMAICA

The Agriculture; value added (annual % growth) in Jamaica was last reported at 0.60 in 2010, according to a World Bank report released in 2011. The Agriculture; value added (annual % growth) in Jamaica was 13.71 in 2009, according to a World Bank report, published in 2010. The Agriculture; value added (annual % growth) in Jamaica was reported at -5.04 in 2008, according to the World Bank. Annual growth rate for agricultural value added based on constant local currency. Aggregates are based on constant 2000 U.S. dollars. Agriculture corresponds to ISIC divisions 1-5 and includes forestry, hunting, and fishing, as well as cultivation of crops and livestock production. Value added is the net output of a sector after adding up all outputs and subtracting intermediate inputs. It is calculated without making deductions for depreciation of fabricated assets or depletion and degradation of natural resources. The origin of value added is determined by the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC), revision 3.This page includes a historical data chart, news and forecasts for Agriculture; value added (annual % growth) in Jamaica. Jamaica has a mixed economy with both state enterprises and private sector businesses. The main sector of the economy is services (tourism, insurance services) which now accounts for more than 60% of GDP. Most of the foreign trade comes from tourism (20% of the GDP), remittances (15% of the GDP), and bauxite/alumina production.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Fig 03

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JAMAICAS GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT RATE OF TEN YEARS

GDP - real growth rate (%)

Country 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Jamaica -0.5 0.2 1.1 0.4 1.9 1.9 1.8 2.3 1.2 -0.6 -2.8 -1.1

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Fig. 04

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EMPLOYMENT RATE IN AGRICULTURE IN JAMAICA (% OF TOTAL EMPLOYMENT) The Employment in agriculture (% of total employment) in Jamaica was 20.20 in 2009, according to a World Bank report, published in 2010. The Employment in agriculture (% of total employment) in Jamaica was reported at 18.70 in 2008, according to the World Bank. Employees are people who work for a public or private employer and receive remuneration in wages, salary, commission, tips, piece rates, or pay in kind. Agriculture corresponds to division 1 (ISIC revision 2) or tabulation categories A and B (ISIC revision 3) and includes hunting, forestry, and fishing.This page includes a historical data chart, news and forecasts for Employment in agriculture (% of total employment) in Jamaica. Jamaica has a mixed economy with both state enterprises and private sector businesses. The main sector of the economy is services (tourism, insurance services) which now accounts for more than 60% of GDP. Most of the foreign trade comes from tourism (20% of the GDP), remittances (15% of the GDP), and bauxite/alumina production.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Fig. 05

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AGRICULTURAL RAW MATERIALS IMPORTS (% OF MERCHANDISE IMPORTS) IN JAMAICA The Agricultural raw materials imports (% of merchandise imports) in Jamaica was last reported at 1.03 in 2010, according to a World Bank report released in 2011. The Agricultural raw materials imports (% of merchandise imports) in Jamaica was 0.92 in 2009, according to a World Bank report, published in 2010. The Agricultural raw materials imports (% of merchandise imports) in Jamaica was reported at 0.80 in 2008, according to the World Bank. Agricultural raw materials comprise SITC section 2 (crude materials except fuels) excluding divisions 22, 27 (crude fertilizers and minerals excluding coal, petroleum, and precious stones), and 28 (metalliferous ores and scrap).This page includes a historical data chart, news and forecasts for Agricultural raw materials imports (% of merchandise imports) in Jamaica. Jamaica has a mixed economy with both state enterprises and private sector businesses. The main sector of the economy is services (tourism, insurance services) which now accounts for more than 60% of GDP. Most of the foreign trade comes from tourism (20% of the GDP), remittances (15% of the GDP), and bauxite/alumina production.

THE IMPACT OF JAMAICA AGRICULTURAL SECTOR ON THE ECONOMY Fig. 06

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MAP OF JAMAICA ILLUSTRATING AGRICULTURE WITHIN THE COUNTRY

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Fig. 07 IMAGES OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN JAMAICA