With the aim of providing immediate solutions to the problems faced by the fishing community, a special discussion was held today (02nd July) at the Ministry auditorium under the patronage of the Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Mr. Rathna Gamage.
The discussion was attended by the senior officials including Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Dr. B. K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, the Chairman of the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation, Mr. B. A. P. Kapila Bamunuarachchi, managers of all ports and district representatives. Extensive attention was paid to the problems existing in the fishery harbours. In particular, the inadequate facilities of the 22 operational fishery harbours, the absence of maximum services and the dengue crisis in related to the harbours were discussed.
During the discussion, the Deputy Minister specifically mentioned that Rs. 750 million has been obtained with the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers for the completion of essential works in the fishery harbours. This amount is to be used to meet the essential needs of the fishery harbours, and the port managers were asked about the essential issues in this regard.
It was reported that there is a shortage of fuel distribution systems in many fishery harbours, especially 17 diesel and kerosene pumps. The Deputy Minister instructed the Chairman of the Fishery harbours Corporation to promptly provide fuel, which is an essential service to the fishing community.
In addition, it was stated that difficulties have arisen in the entry and exit of fishing vessels due to the deposition of sand in some harbours. It was also instructed to take steps to remove this sand promptly. Furthermore, the collection of Water hyacinth in some harbours, deficiencies in garbage disposal systems, and the lack of tires on jetties, which are causing damage to boats, were also discussed. The Deputy Minister promised to take steps to address all these deficiencies promptly.
Attention was also drawn to the lack of radios required for fishing vessels. The Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries stated that it is possible to complete all the radio requirements this year, and that the procurement process has already begun. Therefore, he specifically stated that it is possible to complete them within this year.
The Deputy Minister further emphasized that the fishing industry is a risky job, and the loss of life has become a serious problem with the recent number of boat accidents. Considering this situation, the need to make it mandatory for fishermen to wear life jackets for their safety was discussed. It is expected that these measures will be implemented expeditiously after discussions with the government and obtaining financial allocations.
The event was attended by Mr. H. S. Hathurasinghe, Private Secretary to the Deputy Minister of Fisheries, and many other participants including the officials of the Fishery Harbours Corporation.
