Moves to curb illegal fishing

Stringent legal action will be taken against the use of illegal fishing gear including the use of tractors to haul "Madel" nets, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Dr.Rajitha Senaratne said.

Using illegal fishing vessels, equipment and illegal fishing methods have been banned in Sri Lanka. A large number of cases were filed against them and they have been arrested,he said.

"Certain fishermen have complained to President Mahinda Rajapaksa about the use of illegal fishing gear in the fisheries industry. They have also explained the situation they face when certain parties are using the illegal vessels and gear in the industry. The President has taken immediate measures to solve that matter,"the minister said. The Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry has filed 563 cases against fishermen and the other supportive employees who have violated the the Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Act No.02 of 1996 while using illegal fishing vessels,equipment and the transport methods in the fisheries industry.