By Saskia Warrick
Significant infrastructural upgrades are on the horizon for the Three Door Sluice located in De Edwards, West Coast Berbice, Region Five, as announced by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha following a recent meeting with the Fishermen Cooperative Society.
The decision to undertake these works comes in the wake of a recent visit by President Irfaan Ali, during which several interventions were identified to enhance the working conditions for fishermen in the area.
Among the planned improvements are the construction of a new wharf, shed, and tarmac.
Minister Mustapha assured the fishermen that the infrastructural works are set to commence within the coming month, providing them with better facilities to carry out their activities effectively.
Highlighting the significance of the fisheries industry, Minister Mustapha underscored its substantial contribution to the local economy, providing livelihoods for approximately 15,000 individuals in the sector.
He emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure to support the growth and sustainability of this vital industry.
During the meeting, various concerns were raised, including outstanding payments owed by some fishermen to the cooperative society.
Minister Mustapha assured that these issues, along with others, would be addressed promptly in the upcoming week.
The impending infrastructural upgrades at the Three Door Sluice represent a significant step forward in improving the operational efficiency and working conditions for fishermen in the region, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the local fisheries sector.