University fights for lands seized by the National Lands Institute (INTI

[naaman fletcher]

University fights for lands seized by the National Lands Institute (INTI)

VHeadline News Editor Patrick J. O'Donoghue reports: According to a report in the El Universal broadsheet, The National Lands Institute (INTI) has taken over 700 hectares of farmland belonging to the Universidad Central de Venezuela (UCV) faculty of agronomy experimental station.

Faculty Professor Amalio Belmonte broke the news saying the farm, located in Portuguesa State, is used by agricultural and veterinary students for experimental purposes. Two years ago, Belmonte commented, part of the same lands belonging to the university were invaded by a group of families.

At the time, the university made a complaint to INTI and The National Guard (GNB), the professor recalled but he did not say whether any action had been taken to evict the squatters.

Belmonte did say that other lands used by the university have also been invaded by squatters. Nearby Zulia State University lands have suffered the same fate.

UCV rector, Cecilia Garcia Arocha is expected to make an announcement shortly to comment on the takeover.

There has been no comment from INTI or the Agriculture & Lands Ministry (MAT). The reason for the takeover is the large extension of land in the university's hands not being used and which could produce much needed food for Venezuela.

The university, it is expected, will maintain enough land for experimental use and the training of agronomists and veterinary students.

http://www.vheadline.com/readnews.asp?id=95164