The Parliamentary Secretary responsible for farming and fisheries, Dr Frans Agius, yesterday presented certificates to 50 people who attended an EU-Funded training course on beekeeping and the apiculture industry.

Dr Agius spoke of the historical and economic importance of this small industry and why the government believes in assisting those who are involved in the sector.

According to the National Statistics Office, there are 2,000 bee colonies in Malta.

Dr Agius said that following membership of the European Union, the government applied for funds to organise training for beekeepers. The course was led by Dr Richard Bell, a British expert.

More than a third of Maltese beekeepers attended, he said.