The Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, thank you for permitting, under Standing Order 27(2), a question to the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources regarding fuel distribution for fishermen.

¶ 02 Hon. Minister, fishing is not only an occupation but a way of life that sustains hundreds of thousands of families. It provides nutrition, supports food security and exports, and contributes to the economy. Yet our fishermen are among the poorest communities. Without adequate fuel at affordable prices, they cannot operate their boats, go to sea, or sustain their livelihoods.

¶ 03 After years of war, Vanni fishermen were displaced and are only now recovering. They have small boats and minimal resources, relying on daily catches. When fuel is unavailable or unaffordable, families go hungry, children drop out of school, and debt cycles worsen. Beyond fuel, they face: - Poverty and debt, including high-interest moneylenders and microfinance traps - Lack of infrastructure: cold storage, modern harbours, repair yards, rural facilities - Environmental challenges: unpredictable weather and climate change reducing opportunities

¶ 04 I urge the Government to ensure a fair and efficient fuel distribution system for fishermen immediately, including: - Cooperatives to enable group purchase of subsidized fuel - Debt relief and financial assistance for small-scale fishermen - Modernizing coastal infrastructure in Mannar, Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi and Jaffna

¶ 05 Dignity must be protected; no fisherman should be forced to abandon his livelihood due to policy neglect. While subsidies are being provided, access is inadequate and uneven — benefiting only some. Ensure all fishermen can avail themselves of subsidized kerosene. We appreciate arrangements to provide subsidized kerosene to our fishermen, but universal access is needed.