Norris Deonarine, Education and Research Officer of the National Foodcrop Farmers' Association (NFFA), says the construction of the rapid rail should not be a priority. He also said if 2000 farmers went on the breadline, food availability would be reduced and prices would increase. In a release,Deonarine said, "We call upon Prime Minister Patrick Manning to understand food, water, healthcare, jobs, education, crime reduction and security are among the priorities for citizens. Not a rapid rail. Not now."
He made reference to a meeting which was held on March 3, in collaboration with the Cunupia Farmers' Association (CFA) and the Citizens For Social Justice (CSJ). It took place at the Tunapuna Hindu School and was attended by farmers from agricultural communities including Aranguez South, Bamboo Settlement, Valsayn, Spring Village, St Augustine, Pasea and Macoya South. Among those present were.