Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud has assured Pomeroon River fishermen that government is working to address the piracy problems in the industry and encouraged them to form themselves into groups, like the community police do, to tackle the problem.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release, during a meeting with fishermen on Sunday, Persaud said there are solutions to piracy but there is need for a comprehensive and collaborative approach by all stakeholders. He said his ministry is merely representing fishermen on the issue since the police and coastguard deal with piracy.
GINA said efforts are being made to have stricter monitoring at sea and to make piracy a non-bailable offence. These mechanisms were developed following discussions between officials and the fishermen. The fishermen were urged to form committees similar to community policing groups as another way to deal with the issue. Some fishermen and women in the fishing sector expressed an interest in forming such groups.
Persaud also told the fishermen of opportunities that exist within the aquaculture industry, which could be an alternative source of livelihood. He said ministry officials will conduct training on aquaculture for Pomeroon and nearby residents. The minister also said all inputs in the industry and motor engines up to 75 hp do not attract value-added tax. This was in response to questions posed about duty-free concessions to invest in the industry. He also told the fishermen of a Fisheries Management Plan which promotes conservation and sustainable development of the fisheries resources in Guyana. The plan also provides information on fisheries policy including the legal and institutional framework for fisheries management and development. On completion the plan will be made available to fishermen countrywide.
Region Two Regional Chairman Ali Baksh and other officials from the regional administration and the ministry also attended the meeting. It was hosted at Big Bird and Sons Fisheries Complex at Charity.
