The aging infrastructure of the Ministry of Fisheries is significantly impacting its ability to provide essential services, especially in rural and remote areas, including maritime islands. During a recent report presentation to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Permanent Secretary Sanjana Lal noted that challenges such as climate change, frequent power outages, extreme weather conditions, and rising fuel costs are exacerbating this situation.
Lal highlighted the difficulties faced by local fishermen, which include limited access to markets for selling their catches and the increasing impacts of climate change. The Ministry is actively addressing these issues by implementing a preventative maintenance schedule for its ice plants, which are crucial for preserving fish quality. Despite receiving complaints about inoperative ice plants, Lal assured that the ministry is responsive in resolving these complaints as they arise.
Furthermore, the Ministry is working to update the standard operating procedures for issuing fishing licenses. It operates 24 ice plants across the country, including the Maritime Islands, to assist fishermen and boost production in the fisheries sector.
This situation reflects broader challenges within the fisheries sector, as emphasized by recent initiatives like the Coastal Fisheries Program launched by Minister Alitia Bainivalu. This program aims to enhance food security, improve sustainable economic returns, and bolster the management and conservation of coastal fisheries – addressing issues such as overfishing and habitat degradation.
By maintaining high standards of service and support for local fishermen, the Ministry hopes to improve their livelihoods and ensure the sustainability of fishing resources, ultimately benefiting both the community and the environment. There is hope that with continued efforts and strategic initiatives, fisheries can thrive even amidst these challenges, providing food security for future generations.
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