The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, I wish to present views on the debate relating to four sectors today, specifically on the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources.

¶ 02 In Batticaloa District, some already-initiated productive efforts in fisheries and aquaculture have been left idle. I request the Minister to consider this. Along Batticaloa–Dharmapuram coast, a prawn hatchery was established but is now non-operational; please take steps to restart it. Similarly, the facility near Kiran Kulam for fish fry production is closed; please reactivate it. An ice plant building owned by a fisheries cooperative lies defunct; the fishing community asks that it be restored to operation.

¶ 03 In Vakarai’s Vattavan area, a prawn farming project involves 27 local fishers, yet their licenses have not been renewed—please address this. Also, a company is operating prawn farming over about 100 acres—has proper authorization been granted? Please review.

¶ 04 The Ocean University regional campus at Kallady–Navalady should be invigorated to deliver advanced fisheries education and modern techniques.

¶ 05 From Kathiraveli to Kallar, the coast is ideal for fishing. The Government should develop fisheries there. However, when distributing boats and gear in the past, there were allegations of political bias—only those affiliated received assets. Please ensure fair, unbiased allocation to all active fishers.

¶ 06 Further, coastal areas such as Kaluvankerny, Valachchenai, Kallady, Navalady, Kaluthavalai, Kiran Kulam, Savukkadi, etc., are ideal for fishing, yet no harbours have been established there. Kaluvankerny has a vast coastal front—please act to enhance fishing there. If you visit Batticaloa, we will take you to show these places.

¶ 07 On social empowerment and security: production and distribution of illicit liquor, cannabis, and drug use are threats. Yesterday in Batticaloa, a sword attack killed a person; a similar incident occurred in Ariyampathy. Various social disturbances are being orchestrated. In the past, an “Aava Group” was formed in Jaffna, leading to such attacks, and it still operates. Those who created it are partly known. Now attempts are being made to create a sword culture in Batticaloa. The Hon. President has indicated such risks; they have materialized. These must be nipped in the bud. Though these illegal activities are widespread, police interest appears minimal; some even allege partiality towards illicit brewers. To strengthen society and ensure social security, immediately stop drug use and illegal kasippu production.