Africa-Press – Mauritius. In the context of World Fisheries Day 2023, a Wreath Laying Ceremony and the Unveiling of a Sign Board was held, yesterday, at Le Morne Public Beach, to pay tribute to departed fishers.
The event was organised by the Fisherman Welfare Fund and the Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries, and Shipping. The ceremony included also a parade by the National Coast Guard Officers while representatives from diverse religious groups offered prayers in memory of the fishermen lost at sea.
The Minister of Land Transport and Light Rail, Mr Alan Ganno; the Minister of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping, Mr Sudheer Maudhoo; the Parliament Private Secretary, Mr Nand Prakash Ramchurrun; the Parliamentary Private Secretary, Mrs Marie Sandra Monia Mayotte; the Chairperson of the Fishermen Welfare Fund, Mr Kistnensamy Beemadoo; and other personalities were present on the occasion.
In his keynote address, Minister Maudhoo reiterated the economic value of the fishing sector, highlighting its vital role by referencing the substantial global population of fishermen, estimated at around 45 million people.
He stressed the pivotal importance of the Mauritius’s fishery sector, affirming Government’s unwavering dedication to preserving it and supporting fishermen and their families.
Thus, the Minister talked of the disbursement of some Rs 5,000 for families of departed fishermen; the issuance of 1,000 fishermen cards, and the provision of life jackets and marker buoys aimed at improving safety and productivity within the fishing community.
Furthermore, Mr Maudhoo emphasised the ocean’s pivotal role in absorbing 40% of carbon emission and in surpassing trees in oxygen production. He highlighted the urgency for proactive measures to fortify the sector while reaffirming Government’s support to safeguard fishers’ well-being.
Minister Ganoo, for his part, underlined Government’s substantial efforts to, not only provide financial support, but also to elevate the status and security of the fishermen community.
He stressed the paramount importance of the Exclusive Economic Zone as the backbone of the nation’s economy, emphasising government’s objective to enhance fishers’ safety within this Zone.
The Minister recalled too the initiatives, mentioned in the Budget, to revitalise fisheries operations and enhance the Blue Economy sector. He noted the sector’s substantial economic role, with a contribution of one-fifth to the nation’s income.
Moreover, he pointed out the recent introduction of the Fisheries Bill at the National Assembly, designed to safeguard the ocean and foster the growth of the fishery sector.
Both Mr Ramchurrun and Mrs Mayotte spoke about Government’s pledge to safeguard the lagoon and maritime spaces while uplifting the livelihoods of those reliant on the sea, citing as example the newly completed secure pier at Case Noyale and the ongoing construction of a fishing centre at Baie du Cap.
Mr Ramchurrun emphasised as well the implementation of diverse schemes aimed at ensuring job stability for fishermen, affirming the commitment to support this vital workforce.
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