The Ampara District Fisheries Coordinating Committee meeting was held yesterday (14) at the auditorium of the Ampara District Secretariat.

The meeting, coordinated by District Secretary Anupama Mangala Wickramarachchi, was chaired by Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ramalingam Chandrasekar.

Extensive discussions were held on developing the fisheries industry in the Ampara District, finding solutions to the issues faced by fishermen, and ensuring their occupational safety.

Representatives of fishermen’s associations from various parts of the district explained in detail to the Minister the professional issues and challenges they face on a daily basis.

In particular, representatives of fishermen’s associations emphasized the need for the Ministry to formulate an urgent and permanent programme to control and completely eliminate the activities of poachers, which pose a major threat to fishermen engaged in deep-sea fishing.

In addition, the Minister was requested to upgrade Oluvil Port as a fully-fledged fisheries harbour, remove the sand accumulated at the harbour entrance, and develop the harbour to make it suitable for fishing activities.

After listening to the views and requests of the fishermen, Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar assured that steps would be taken to provide practical and expeditious solutions to the issues raised, in consultation with the relevant officials and departments.

Commenting on the development of Oluvil Port, the Minister stated that a number of local and foreign investors have expressed interest in investing in the port. He further stated that steps would be taken to develop the port with their participation and to enhance the essential facilities required by fishermen.

A number of important decisions were taken at the meeting to ensure the safety of fishermen in the Ampara District and to make the fisheries sector more profitable and sustainable.

Members of Parliament A. Athambawa, Ashraf Tahir, M.S. Abdul Wasith and K. Kodeeswaran, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean  Resources Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Susanta Kahawatta, as well as Divisional Secretaries, Directors of Planning, departmental officials, representatives of institutions related to the fisheries sector, members of the security forces and numerous representatives of fishermen’s associations were also present on the occasion.