Yellowfin tuna fishermen have staged a protest today, calling on MIFCO to purchase yellowfin tuna as pledged by the Government.
Yellowfin tuna fishermen have staged a protest today, calling on MIFCO to purchase yellowfin tuna as pledged by the Government.
The fishing vessels all docked at the Hulhumale' Kanneli [Yellowfin tuna] Jetty this afternoon, demonstrating loudly and calling on MIFCO to purchase fish and for the Government to not issue permits to fish with the use of fishing setlines.
A fishing setline is a long fishing line to which several hooks are attached in series, and is attached to floats or buoys.
They demanded that Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam meet with them and listen to their concerns.
Minister Shiyam later arrived at the location of the protest and met with the fishermen gathered there. Police were also active at the site to maintain the peace.
Shiyam told the fishermen that although the government had earlier pledged that MIFCO will buy yellowfin tuna, this would not be possible within this year due to the financial status of the company.
"This year, we will not be able to buy yellowfin tuna from the fishermen. MIFCO is not in that condition. We are working to improve MIFCO now," the Minister said.
Shiyam said that this government has been fulfilling pledges soon after assuming office, and will fulfill pledges made to the fishermen as well.
Regarding the concerns about allowing fishing with setlines, the Minister said that this is being discussed under the many ways the government is exploring to increase revenue as the State's financial situation is weak.
Shiyam assured that even if setline fishing is allowed, it will not be done in the same manner it was before.
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