Meeting with Minister Shiyam very productive: Union

The Yellowfin Tuna Fishermen's Union has stated that the meeting with Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam to raise their concerns and explore possible solutions was very fruitful. 

The meeting started at 11am today at the Fisheries Ministry and stretched till 4pm, with a lunch break taken from 1:45pm to around 3pm. 

After the meeting, Union Vice President Imran Mohamed stated that the meeting had been adjourned just an hour after the lunch break as Minister Shiyam had to attend an emergency meeting to find a quick resolution to fishermen's concerns.

Imran said that the meeting held today, made possible through the efforts of fishermen, was very productive. 

"What we proposed includes things that can be immediately resolved, as well as things that will need to be addressed in the long-term. There are a lot of issues. We are hoping that a good resolution will be found for all of these," Imran said.

"My hope is that a response that will bring joy to us fishermen will be given soon."

The Yellowfin Tuna Fishermen's Union said that they had received 'a very positive response' regarding MIFCO weighing and purchasing their yellowfin tuna catch. This indicates progress, they said, adding that deliberations are ongoing. 

The union also cited the minister as saying that the fish processing facility at Kandu Oiy Giri will also be made operational soon to purchase yellowfin tuna. They said that the minister indicated that 'a signal of some form' will be given in the coming two weeks. 

Imran said that they had received the opportunity to present all concerns held by fishermen to the minister. He said that extensive discussions had been held on matters concerning the fisheries industry. 

"We had a very open discussion about all this, in a very positive environment. The union's executive committee members and captains leading this movement attended the meeting. They also discussed at length issues faced when out fishing and other matters," Imran said.

However, Imran asserted that the fishermen are continuing their protest, stating that it will only be ceased when the two boat captains arrested during the protest are released. 

The union said that they had communicated to the Minister as well that discussions can better proceed once the two are freed. 

On Friday, the Criminal Court had placed the two captains in remand in custody for a period of five days. 

During this year’s Fishermen’s Day celebrations held in Raa atoll Dhuvaafaru, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced that preparations are underway for MIFCO to purchase yellowfin tuna in a manner similar to skipjack tuna.

The President said the establishment of a large fish processing facility in Hulhumalé and Kandu Oiy Giri is already underway.

“These efforts will continue. In addition, we are working extensively to establish a sustainable system in the shortest possible time,” he said.