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

¶ 01 Thank you, Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees. Today Hon. Imran Maharoof has raised a very important question. We are paying increased attention to this matter. In that respect, we are identifying fishermen’s problems and holding discussions with them to resolve those issues. Recently, at the Trincomalee District DCC meeting, the Hon. Deputy Minister especially invited leaders of fishermen’s associations and examined in detail the problems faced by the fishermen there.

¶ 02 Among the questions you raised, you have highlighted the use of purse seine nets as the main issue. That is indeed a critical issue. Similarly, in Trincomalee District there is also the serious problem of night diving, and risks arising from light-coarse fishing (using powerful lights). There is also the matter of catching cuttlefish. We have instructed NARA and NAQDA to conduct reviews and further studies on these. On that basis, as you said, we will first take up the purse seine issue. The purse seine problem is a general issue. I have observed this at many places I have visited. Although it has been announced that purse seine nets are banned, our fishermen continue to use them illegally. This is seen everywhere. I have personally inquired into those engaging in purse seine fishing. Only a small number are engaged in it with small boats, yet the daily livelihoods of thousands of fishermen are adversely affected by it.

¶ 03 Therefore, we have taken a decision on purse seines. It has not yet come into force. We recently submitted a new Cabinet paper on this. In it, the purse seine issue is addressed in depth. We are now drafting the legislation and intend to present it to Parliament in the future. At that time, you too will be able to offer your views and suggestions.

¶ 04 Purse seine fishing is harmful to our country and to the fisheries sector. Accordingly, today we speak about those who are currently engaged in fishing using purse seine nets or using rollers; we also speak about Indian nationals and locals who use rollers. The practices of night diving, purse seine fishing, and light-coarse fishing have become activities that can cause serious damage to our fishermen, their future, and to our marine area, fishery resources, and ocean resources. Therefore, we must protect our marine resources.

¶ 05 Only if we protect marine resources can we see positive changes in the lives of our country’s fishermen. For the needs of a few fishermen or individuals, we cannot allow activities that destroy the entire marine resource. That is my position. As Hon. Imran Maharoof asked regarding purse seine nets with a mesh size of 3/8 inch—whether any amendments can be made—we have requested NARA to provide an immediate report. The present decision is that purse seine nets cannot be used. If we find that any amendments are needed, we will conduct the necessary studies and make a decision.

¶ 06 Next, regarding night diving: in the past, we issued permits for night diving. Even now, some have been given permission. However, those engaging illegally in night diving have increased. You know this even better than I do. In Trincomalee District even our friends are engaged in such activities. They themselves say, “Sir, we do this; what to do? This is our livelihood.” For now, we have not taken strict action against this practice. However, action will be taken in the future.

¶ 07 Further, Hon. Imran Maharoof asked whether there is one law in the North and East on purse seines and another law in the South. He also noted that even now you can see purse seine nets on the Galle and Matara coasts. Today, not only in Galle and Matara, but also in some areas in Batticaloa, in some areas in Jaffna, in Mannar, Pesalai, Mullaitivu, and many other places, such illegal fishing methods can be seen being used. That is how those people have lived over time. We are examining whether we can change this situation and engage them not only in fishing but in other sectors as well. We are now paying increased attention to modernising shrimp production, crab production, and cuttlefish farming. Fishermen too are paying more attention to these. Considering foreign exchange, the safety of fishermen, and consumer needs, we must in future move towards a modern system.

¶ 08 In truth, I have taken special note of the questions raised by Hon. Imran Maharoof. Accordingly, on purse seine fishing, night diving, and light-assisted fishing, we will pay increased attention. I assure him of this. Thank you.