Current reality is that fishermen face mounting challenges and lack necessary means to effectively conduct fishing operations in distant waters: Mauroof
Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir has expressed concern over proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act, alleging they are designed to penalize fishermen rather than support them. Highlighting the government's failure to fulfill its pledges to the industry, the lawmaker noted that fishermen are facing significant challenges due to rising fuel costs and declining fish prices. He called on the government to provide equitable fuel subsidies and facilitate easier financial conditions for all fishermen.
Mauroof Zakir, Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency. | People's Majlis
Mauroof Zakir, the Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, has stated that the current reality of the Maldivian fishing industry is that fishermen are unable to venture into distant waters and fish effectively due to the significant challenges they face.
During Wednesday's parliamentary sitting, debate proceeded on a government-sponsored bill to amend the Maldives Fisheries Act, introduced by MP Mohamed Alsan Ahmed of the South Thinadhoo constituency.
Debating the bill, Mauroof stated that fishermen have numerous concerns. He noted that while he had hoped the introduction of this legislation would address those grievances, the bill appears to be designed primarily to impose penalties on fishermen.
The member stated that the current administration has significantly neglected the fishing industry, particularly yellowfin tuna fishermen.
The current administration came to power with the support of yellowfin tuna fishermen after promising to maintain prices between MVR 80 and MVR 100 per kilogram. However, three years have passed, and to this day, that pledge remains an illusion. Despite repeated protests by fishermen to remind the government of its commitment, the President remains indifferent and continues to perpetuate these falsehoods.Mauroof Zakir, Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency.
Mauroof stated that if this situation persists, the government will lose the trust of the fishing community. The member further noted that, alongside yellowfin tuna fishermen, a primary concern for skipjack tuna fishermen is the inability to cover rising operational costs when fish is priced at just 16 Rufiyaa per kilogram.
Mauroof stated that the most common complaint received daily is the inability to cover operational costs. He noted that the current reality is that fishermen are now hesitant to venture to distant fishing grounds to conduct proper fishing operations.
Mauroof noted that while special attention is given to skipjack tuna fishermen regarding fuel subsidies, those engaged in other types of fishing appear to be overlooked. He emphasized the need to address the difficulties and challenges these fishermen face in accessing subsidies and other forms of relief.
The member stated that providing fishermen across the country with access to affordable fuel from all regions of the Maldives would offer them significant relief. He further highlighted several recurring concerns regarding the bill currently under consideration.
