The concept of the AWG evolved as a result of discussions in an earlier meeting of senior Ministry officials and the ARD, at the Ministry of Agriculture. The priorities of the Group were identified as a) improving agricultural productivity, b) modernisation of the sector through research and development facilities and commercialisation, and c) strengthening the policy and legal framework.

The first AWG meeting, chaired by ARD Director of Economic Planning Promil Paul, was opened by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture Lana McPhail and also addressed by the Mr. Richard Andrews, CEO of the ARD.

Following a brief presentation of a draft proposal for a Land Utilisation Survey Project by ARD Senior Projects Manager Robin Swaisland, a short discussion was held to finalise the details of the Project Proposal. Newly appointed Agricultural Planner Keith Owen presented a brief outline of a proposed work programme and suggested some preliminary steps towards forming a working programme under the coming months.

The meeting focussed on the immediate steps necessary to address the most immediate needs resulting from Hurricane Emily. The Ministry indicated that a damage assessment was being finalised and a list of the needs would be forwarded to ARD.

Other issues addressed included riverbank stabilisation programmes, clearance of access roads and the provision of extension support services. The discussion focused not only on immediate actions but also on measures that could be designed to reduce the risk from future hurricane damage which should help to stabilise the agricultural sector and restore some measure of confidence within the farming community.