The passage followed the conclusion of debate on the merits of the amendments being sought by the sponsor of the bill as presented at plenary by the Majority Leader of the house, Hon Tim Owhefere.
The Majority Leader, Hon Tim Owhefere while opening debate on the bill, said the proposed amendment which was forwarded to the house by the state governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa was to introduce a new session four to the principal law.
Hon Owhefere who represents Isoko North constituency stated that the development is aimed at making the Authority perform optimally as the proposed session provides for a Chairman with relevant cognate experience who will be on part time basis.
Also being provided for as members of the management team, according to the Lawmaker, include representatives of the Ministries of Agriculture, Economic Planning, Lands, Survey and Urban Development as well as a director from the federal ministry of Agriculture, the Delta State Job Creation Officer or his representative and three representatives from the three senatorial district of the state.
Hon Owhefere disclosed that the Project Manager who is also a member of the management team will serve as Secretary of the Authority.
The Majority Leader noted that the amendment seeks to create enlightenment to farmers on modern farming techniques and seedlings thereby enhancing food production in the state.
He stressed that there are some other programs the proposed amendment has provided for the Authority to perform that would facilitate agricultural development in Delta State.
In their contributions, Hon Samuel Mariere, Ughelli North One and Anthony Elekeokuri, Ika North-East, said the importance of the amendment cannot be over emphasized as it would promote agricultural development in the state in line with the SMART agenda of governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
Hon Mariere and Elekeokuri noted that the bill was key to the diversification policy of the state economy, stressing that it would facilitate linkages between farmers and market operators as well as agro processors and market support services.
They argued that effective implementation of the proposed law would help boost the economy of the state.
No member spoke against the bill.
The second reading was adopted following a unanimous voice vote.
The bill was committed to the house committee on Agriculture and natural resources for further legislative action and expected to turn in its report in two weeks.
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