Weather conditions:

Fishermen to be informed in advance - Rajitha

Parliament reporters

Sri Lankan fishermen will be informed about Sri Lankan and international weather conditions in advance, using VMS technology, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Rajitha Senaratne said yesterday.

The minister made this statement in Parliament yesterday, in response to a question raised by DNA MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Senaratne said plans are under way to provide this facility to fishermen without delay.

The minister said that information on the weather and fish finding are provided to fishermen by the NARA Institute under the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry.

He said that a report has been called regarding deceased fishermen and damaged boats and other equipment following the recent adverse conditions, to pay compensation.

He said insurance institutions have been directed not to consider minor defects in the par of fishermen when claims are settled.