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

¶ 01 Hon. Shanakiyan, indeed there are over 200 bottom trawl boats operating within Sri Lanka. A recent assessment was done and action has been taken. Furthermore, in the forthcoming new Bill, we intend to make decisive provisions. We will consult the country’s fishers and leaders. The Bill proposes to confine trawling, where permitted, strictly to designated zones with specific licensing and controls. With everyone’s support, we must enact it.

¶ 02 Even as we speak, in areas such as Kattaikadu and Chundikkulam, illegal methods are used: dynamite, light fishing, monofilament and matti (small-mesh) nets, single-cylinder compressors—methods that destroy juveniles and the resource base. There is no disagreement that they must be stopped.

¶ 03 As the Ministry and as a Government, we are taking action. In 2023, illegal fishing boats seized included: Mullaitivu 35, Jaffna 203, Kilinochchi 23, Mannar 20. In 2025 so far: Jaffna 10, Mullaitivu 15, Kilinochchi 8, Mannar 12—boats seized and legal action taken. Yet enforcement alone will not suffice. We must also create public awareness that illegal methods harm not only fishers but the nation and its people. We will carry out the necessary programmes, and we need your support. Let us all work together to eradicate illegal fishing. Thank you for bringing this Motion; I conclude my speech.

¶ 04 It being 6.30 p.m., THE HON. PRESIDING MEMBER adjourned Parliament without Question put.

¶ 05 Parliament adjourned until 9.30 a.m. on Monday, 24th February, 2025, pursuant to the Resolution of Parliament of 06th February, 2025.