Deputy Minister of Fisheries Ratna Gamage stated in Parliament that the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) has been instructed to conduct an extensive investigation into information released by fishermen and the media regarding the decline in fish resources.

Responding to a question raised in Parliament, the Deputy Minister said that there appears to be some truth to reports that fish resources are declining.

“I saw the newspaper reports regarding this matter. It appears that there is some truth to them,” he said.

He also stated that various factors, including changes in the marine environment, ocean pollution, and rising sea temperatures, could contribute to the decline in fish resources.

He noted that it should also be investigated whether this situation is linked to El Niño conditions, adding that similar changes are being observed in various marine regions around the world.

He pointed out that a reduction in algae in the sea could disrupt the process of photosynthesis, which could in turn affect the marine environment necessary for the growth and survival of fish species.

He further stated that due to rising sea temperatures, certain fish species may migrate toward deeper waters, and as a result, fish resources may decline in areas where fishing has traditionally been carried out.

He also drew attention to the damage that illegal and destructive fishing methods can cause to fish resources. He said that previous research conducted by NARA has shown that such unregulated fishing methods can have an impact on fish resources.

Accordingly, NARA has been instructed to conduct an extensive study on the current status of fish resources, changes in fish production, changes in their habitats, and the factors affecting them, and to submit a report.

It was also stated that NARA has been requested to provide recommendations on the measures that should be taken to find solutions to the problems identified and to protect fish resources.

Deputy Minister of Fisheries Ratna Gamage further stated in Parliament that the research report is expected to be submitted to the Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries.