Fishermen's subsidy coupons from next week

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

The fuel coupon system which was introduced for fishermen to obtain their fuel subsidy is to commence from next week, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Dr.Rajitha Senaratne said.

Distribution of the coupons has commenced and all fishermen who have been registered with the district fisheries organizations will have the opportunity to obtain their fuel subsidy from filling sheds in their fisheries harbours,he added.

According to the minister, fishermen who bought fuel for their vessels prior to the increase of the fuel price will receive their money along with this relief.

Accordingly, a fuel subsidy worth Rs.30,000 will be provided for all multi-day fishing trawlers while one day fishing boats will receive fuel subsidy of Rs.18,000 per month.

This subsidy will also be extended to the boats with kerosene driven engines.

One litre of kerosene will be available at Rs.110 for the boats with kerosene driven engines.

Accordingly, a subsidy of Rs 12 per litre of diesel will be granted for one-day and multi-day fishing boats while fishermen will also be given a subsidy of Rs 25 per litre of kerosene.

"The government has to spend around Rs.260 million per month for the fuel subsidy which had been granted for the fishermen and they have to spend over Rs 30,000 million annually for this subsidy. All fishing trawlers which have been registered with district fisheries organizations will receive this subsidy," the minister further said.