Compensation only for vessels, gear damaged by natural disaster

Uditha KUMARASINGHE and Irangika RANGE

Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Minister Felix Perera told Parliament yesterday that the Government would only compensate owners of fishing vessels and gear damaged by natural disaster.

Responding to a question by JVP MP Pemasiri Manage, the Minister said the Government is not ready to grant compensation in respect of damaged vessels used for illegal activities.

The Minister said the Government had no ability to pay compensation for vessels damaged due to owners' mistakes and shortcomings.

According to Minister Perera those who have engaged in ferrying illegal emigrants to Italy and Australia via sea routes too are attempting to claim compensation for their damaged vessels.

"Therefore, the Government would not allow insurance companies to pay compensation for these fishing vessels used by the illegal immigrants."

During the 2005-2008 period, 159 craft, 28 engines and 118 nets have been damaged due to natural disaster. In accordance with the recommendations made by the authorities compensation payments or net replacements had been made by the Government and insurance companies, he said.

In accordance with reports, 18 craft, seven engines and 18 nets to the value of Rs. 3,826,000 had been supplied for reimbursement in respect of craft lost at Kalamitiya. Reimbursements have also been made for craft destroyed by fire at Negombo and Mankuliya. Although it is compulsory to insure all fishing craft after September 1, 2007, the relevant companies had reimbursed the losses incurred due to each of these situations, the Minister added.