Gov’t to heighten efforts to protect fishermen - Minister Ramsammy
- Details
- Published on Wednesday, 22 February 2012 18:05
- Written by Leanna Bradshaw
The Ministry of Agriculture says it will be taking the leadership role in advocacy of fisherfolks’ protection at sea. This was announced by Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, while addressing fisherfolks at the International Conference Centre.
“Robbery at sea especially among the artisanal vessels has been occurring for years and we have placed measures to mitigate this activity these measures must be enhanced. We’ve brought together stakeholders and through their presentations today you’ll be able to understand their role and in discussion you will be able to contribute your own recommendations.”
Public Works Minister, Robeson Benn also lauded the initiative of meeting with fisher folks, noting that interaction would assist the maritime department in having a more comprehensive database of active fishermen going out to sea.
“When fisher folk depart from their various clusters from their areas we want to improve that database so as to be able to react to issues of maritime safety and security.”
This is the first national dialogue being undertaken with fishermen of Guyana and it is expected to be a continuous one. The Aquaculture industry provides employment for in excess of 15 thousand persons in Guyana, with over three percent contributing to its GDP.
