Fishermen from across the country were today recognized for their invaluable contribution to the development of Guyana’s economy as the Fisheries Department of the Ministry of Agriculture hosted a simple but significant exercise in observance of National Fisherfolks Day 2021.
Today’s National Fisherfolks Day exercise which was observed under the theme ‘Promoting Social Responsibility to Safeguard Fisheries Resources and Livelihood’, was hosted at the Bourda Cricket Club.
Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha while delivering remarks noted that government has been working to address many of the issues faced by fisherfolk in the industry. Mustapha said these include not having safety nets for fisherfolk in times of need, financing bodies being reluctant to offer insurance coverage to certain classes of vessels, and cases where no serious attempts have been made to have fisherfolk registered with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).
The Minister said these matters have been discussed while adding that the government hopes to soon have them addressed in the interest of all parties involved.
Since taking office, Mustapha noted that government has undertaken several initiatives to promote safeguarding Guyana’s fishing resources. Some of those interventions include resuscitating several fishermen cooperatives, associations, and committees as well as the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on fishing gear and equipment.
At the event, President of the Guyana Association of Trawler Owners and Seafood Processors (GATOSP) Mr. Ruben Charles made calls for fisherfolk, more so the artisanal fishermen to be more unified. He also said that the Trawler Association, like other stakeholders in the sector, also faced challenges. The Minister was quick to note however that the government will continue its engagements with all parties to ensure all matters are addressed.
The Fisheries Department presented two awards as part of the day’s activities. Best fisherman for 2021 was awarded to Kaheel Mohammed, while the most improved Cooperative Society was awarded to the Upper Corentyne Fishermen Cooperative Society.
