The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, the answer is as follows:

¶ 02 (a) (i) Due to both tourists and fishermen using the same area, and the proliferation of services for tourists such as restaurants, small lodgings and snack outlets, both parties face various inconveniences. This requires additional attention. (ii) Based on these circumstances, a decision was taken to relocate the fishing pier to another site. Following field studies, Kudakalliya was identified as suitable. On 30.06.2025, at a discussion held by the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources with all stakeholders, this site was agreed as suitable; however, it was decided that a feasibility study and report must precede a final decision. (iii) The proposed access road to the fishing pier must be laid from the Pottuvil–Panama road through paddy lands, of about 2.5 km, of which about 1.5 km presently lies through fields. Sufficient lands must be acquired for the pier and infrastructure. According to the Government’s valuation, and with due compensation, landowners have consented to provide land for the road and facilities, as informed by the Pottuvil Divisional Secretary, who will handle acquisition. A feasibility study to confirm site suitability will be undertaken prior to further action. Budgetary allocations for this study have been made under the 2026 Budget. Currently, a feasibility study for lagoon development, including areas related to Arugam Bay Lagoon, is underway. For deepening the Arugam Bay Lagoon, steps are being taken to obtain from the Marine Environment Protection Authority the necessary permit to dispose of dredged spoil at sea. Under the lagoon development programme, 1,048 boundary posts have been fabricated to demarcate the lagoon boundaries; 420 posts have been planted, but demarcation was halted midway due to boundary disputes. The Survey Department has been requested to survey and demarcate the lagoon; surveys are being carried out accordingly. Further, the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) is conducting fish fingerling stocking in the Arugam Bay Lagoon. With respect to Rottai, R.M. Nagar, and Komari, we are gathering information to take suitable future action. (iv) Under Chinese grant assistance, 75,000 fishing nets worth Rs. 500 million were donated to the Government of Sri Lanka. Distribution is being arranged among 12,500 fishermen continuously engaged in fisheries in the districts of Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Batticaloa, Mannar, Mullaitivu, Trincomalee and Ampara. In addition, through the Ministry’s affiliated Sel-nor Trust (limited by guarantee) and North Sea Ltd., production of quality fishing boats and nets has commenced, including manufacturing and repairing nets and small boats damaged by Cyclone “Boo”. These products will be made available to fishermen at fair prices. Further, concessional financing through State banks is planned for fishermen to obtain boats and gear.

¶ 03 (b) Not applicable.