THE EARLY YEARS

This situation was quite different in 1941 when the association was first founded as the Cattlemen’s Association.  This was understandable as there was no organized broiler industry or local processing of pork and no facilities for large scale handling of milk and milk products.  Most of the wealthy farmers and landowners then raised cattle as a sideline to banana and sugar production so the emphasis was on beef.

     By 1942, however, small farmers who raised goats, pigs and sheep became a part of the association and the name, The Jamaica Livestock Association was adopted as it more appropriately represented the extension of the organization.

     After a short time, the group became a powerful lobbying force, particularly as many of its members were close to the colonial administration in those days – wielding influence here in Jamaica and in England.

     Concerns at that time centered chiefly on overcoming the adverse effects on farmers, price controls and rationing during the war years.

     A new and more enlightened era dawned in the 1950’s, with the emphasis shifting to the implementation of updated facilities and the adoption of advanced techniques, in an effort to increase production and the quality of supplies.

OVER 60 YEARS OF SERVICE

     Service and support have been hallmarks of the JLA, which throughout its over sixty years has strived to ensure the well-being of farmers, by representing their interest at governmental, commercial, industrial and international levels.

     Constant communication and interaction is maintained with farmers through the association’s professionally trained Field Service Staff.  The team is always available to assist farmers in areas, ranging from the adoption of modern farming techniques and practices, to imparting the knowledge and skills required in effectively securing loans from credit and banking institutions.

           In addition, farming and agricultural supplies are provided through JLA’s outlets in Kingston, St. Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, St. James, Westmoreland and St. Thomas.