Ministerial fuel quota cuts to fund fishermen’s welfare: Deputy Minister

By Mangala Pavithrani

Colombo, May 26 (Daily Mirror) - Funds saved through reductions in ministers’ fuel quotas and other privileges will be directly channelled towards the welfare of the fishing community, Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Marine Resources Ratna Gamage said.

He made these remarks while attending a ceremony held yesterday (25th) at the Fisheries Ministry to distribute high-quality fishing equipment worth Rs. 1.26 million to fishermen in the Colombo District affected by Cyclone Ditwah.

A total of 14 fishermen received fishing gear sets during the event.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Minister said the current government would not impose additional burdens on the public and would continue to support fishermen despite rising global fuel prices.

“Even though fuel prices have increased globally, the government will bear the loss and take steps to protect the fishing community,” he said.

He further explained that relief assistance for those affected by Cyclone Ditwah was delayed as the government opted not to distribute low-quality equipment.

According to him, steps have now been taken to provide high-quality nets and vessels through the ‘Northsea’ and ‘Sinor’ institutions under the Fisheries Ministry.

The Deputy Minister also said that strengthening the livelihoods of fishermen is essential to achieving Sri Lanka’s target of increasing fisheries export earnings to US$600 million.

He also urged fishing communities to take responsibility in protecting the marine environment by reducing ocean pollution.

Meanwhile, Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Susantha Kahawatte said that relief will be provided to all fishermen affected by the cyclone before the end of this year.