Security will be heightened at the Georgetown Fisheries Wharf in response to increased reports of robberies in the area.
A Government Information Agency (GINA) press release said this announcement was made during a visit to the Meadow Bank wharf by agriculture minister Robert Persaud, Acting Crime Chief Seelall Persaud and a team of senior fisheries officers. The team met with fishermen and other stakeholders on various matters, particularly security, as government takes steps to further develop the fisheries sector. Over recent months, there have been increased reports of robberies at the wharf especially during early business hours. Persaud said the discussions were aimed at prompting collaboration between the Georgetown Fisheries Co-op Society and fishermen to address security. He said close to $1.5M of the more than $10M debt the Co-op owes the ministry will be waived as an investment to improve the facilities and enhance security. Persaud added that there is need for the Co-op, which manages the facility, to play an even greater role in boosting security for persons who use the wharf.
Fishermen suggested that a permanent police presence be established, particularly during the early hours. In response, Seelall said there are limited resources for such an arrangement and the members of the Co-op were instead urged to pursue other mechanisms including the use of a private security firm. However, discussions had already been held in this regard and there are plans to fence the compound.
