Stringent laws to combat illegal fishing methods

Ridma Dissanayake

The Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry will impose strict rules and regulations on deep sea fishermen using illegal fishing vessels and equipment to net in their catch, Minister Dr Rajitha Senaratne said.

He said despite the ministry banning certain methods of deep sea fishing with Security Forces' assistance, it has been found that some fishermen still use illegal equipment.

Addressing a meeting at the ministry recently, the minister quoting sources said some fishermen have commenced to use dynamite and trolling.

"We received a number of complaints against some fishermen from district fisheries assistant directors and fisheries inspectors. The lack of assistance from Security Forces has also resulted in this matter becoming more serious. I hope to make a special request to obtain the assistance of Security Forces at discussions with Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa," the minister said.

The Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry filed 596 cases against fishermen using illegal fishing vessels, equipment and prohibited fishing methods islandwide. Minister Senaratne said 497 cases out of those filed, relate to fishing with dynamite and using illegal nets and equipment.

Others are connected to unregistered fishing boats and non-renewal of fishing licenses and permits, he added.

The minister said the assistance of fisheries technicians and fisheries organisations is essential to obtain information about illegal activities.

According to the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Act, fishing with dynamite, spotlight fishing, using unauthorised chemicals and tank boats are prohibited in the fisheries industry since such things are harmful to fisheries and aquatic resources. Unauthorised fishing vessels, engines and fish transport systems will also be taken into custody, the minister said.

Around 199 cases of illegal fishing have been reported from Batticaloa, 130 from Puttalam, 58 from Trincomalee, 68 from Kalmunai, 49 from Negombo, 20 from Galle, 16 from Mannar, 14 from Tangalle, 17 from Kalutara, 21 from Chilaw, nine from Jaffna and two from Mullaitivu, Minister Senaratne said.

"These things are happening continuously. The mere arrests and imposing of fines are not sufficient to control these illegal activities. Measures should be taken to introduce correct fishing vessels, equipment and modern technology among Sri Lankan fishermen. the The Fisheries Ministry has taken measures to strengthen and legalise the fisheries industry to uplift their livelihoods and improve methods of catching fish," the minister said.