During a ceremony at Gaaf Dhaal Atoll Madaveli to launch the Fishermen Rescue Diver program, Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam addressed the commitment to ensure prompt payments to fishermen post fish weigh-in and sale by the State.
Minister Shiyam acknowledged the challenges faced in the fishing sector, highlighting the issue of delayed payments after fish weigh-ins as a significant concern. This delay affects fishermen’s ability to buy essential supplies like ice and oil.
He noted that upon the new government’s inception, there were initial challenges in making timely payments for fish due to the State’s financial constraints. However, Shiyam assured that steps are being taken to overcome these issues, attributing the progress to the President’s continuous efforts.
“Upon taking office, the President was fully aware of these challenges and has been tirelessly working to address them. I am confident that, with the grace of God, the payments due to fishermen for their catch will be efficiently handled by the President soon,” said Shiyam.
To date, MVR 136 million has been paid out of the substantial amount owed to fishermen since President Dr. Mohamed Muiz took office.
At the ceremony for the Rescue Diver Program, Shiyam emphasized its significance in addressing fishermen’s hardships, which is a top priority for the President. The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance safety in fishing practices and ensure the well-being of fishermen. Given the rise in tragic incidents at sea, the State has partnered with six diving facilities to train rescue divers.
Shiyam further explained that the plan to have at least one trained diver on every fishing vessel demonstrates the President’s deep commitment to the fishing industry.
He also mentioned the President’s focus on fishing during his inaugural state visit to China, where agreements were made to advance the sector, including training and education for those in the industry.
The necessity for trained divers on fishing boats was underlined by the President at the 42nd Fishermen’s Day meeting, following several incidents where fishermen were rescued under critical conditions. The President stressed the importance of this measure in reducing such perilous situations.