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| Wednesday, 26 June 2002 |
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by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi Fisheries and Ocean Resources Minister Mahinda Wijesekera yesterday said that steps would be taken to completely upgrade the Dodanduwa Fishery Harbour in a bid to avert difficulties and mishaps caused to the fishermen. A fisherman died on Monday when his catamaran crashed into the breakwater of the harbour. Addressing a joint meeting of representatives of fisheries societies and Ministry officials, Minister Wijesekera said views and suggestions of the fishermen in the area would be given priority in this exercise. The Minister said steps would be taken to find necessary funding for the project. While expressing his sympathy for the bereaved family, the Minister said that although the Ministry could not be held solely accountable to this unfortunate incident, it has a responsibility to look after the welfare of the fishermen. He attributed the incident to the incorrect decision of the dead fisherman who opted to sail at a time when the sea was extremely rough. "He should have avoided fishing during this off season and this death had been occurred under tragic and extra-ordinary circumstances due to his poor judgement and the rough sea," added the Minister. After the death of fisherman, fisher families in the area staged a protest on the Galle Road, blocking traffic using their boats and other fishing gear on Monday. The Minister lamented the reaction of the fishermen following the incident. "They should have been more responsible," he stressed. Minister of Public Administration, Management and Reform Vajira Abeywardena said the previous Government should take the blame for commencing construction of this harbour without an appropriate plan that suited the environment in the area. "Today, we have to correct the mistakes made by the previous regime," he added. |
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