La Laguna is a municipality that has always sought to champion everything that benefits agriculture and livestock farming. The vital importance of both is reflected in the support and promotion we have been giving to this Livestock Fair since 2022. FAGATE has, over the years, become a true insular reference, progressing steadily alongside major regional livestock meetings, such as FEAGA in Fuerteventura. The great work and commitment of all those who make the Fair possible are key to its continued growth and consolidation.
La Laguna also prides itself on being one of the most prominent municipalities in the Archipelago in its dedication to native Canary breeds. This is where they find the most prominent space, and where livestock identity is deeply rooted. Let us all continue to contribute to this, as only in this way can we achieve strong, sustainable livestock farming that harmonises with the development of our rural world.
Our municipality is also proud to have the most important herd of Canarian cattle in the archipelago, which faces both a challenge and an opportunity. This breed should not be limited to folklore or romantic tradition: its potential as a triple-purpose breed—work, milk, and meat—is immense. Investing in the quality of its meat and milk through research and innovation is a direct path to revitalising livestock farming and strengthening our rural environment, while also enhancing R&D+i. For this reason, we call on research centres and administrations to allocate the necessary resources and work in this direction.
In this regard, I cannot help but thank the Cabildo and the Government of the Canary Islands for their support, making it possible for this Fair to today represent the best of our livestock identity.
Finally, we must not fail to mention the good hydrological year we are experiencing. Thanks to this, the conditions that guarantee the quality of our products, from origin to end consumer, are strengthened.
