'Fisheries sector making strides in N-E'

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

The fisheries industry will be developed in the North and East on a large scale within the next two years, said Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Dr.Rajitha Senaratne.

The minister was addressing the people of Puthukudiyiruppu.

He participated in an inspection tour of Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi and Mannar districts recently.

Minister Senaratne released Rs.150,000 worth of 75,000 fry of fish to the Udayarkattu reservoir.

He said the Eastern Province produces 30 percent of the total fish cultivation. Arrangements are in place to produce 50 percent of the fish cultivation from the Northern Province. The Fisheries Ministry will uplift the fisheries community. The ministry will distribute 20 canoes and fisheries equipment.

The Iranamadu and Udayarkattu reservoirs have been opened to the fisheries industry.

The ministry will provide all the facilities for fishermen to increase their fish cultivation, the minister said. Minister Senaratne also laid the foundation stone for an aquaculture office in the Kilinochchi District.