By RASHA AL QAHTANI
THE interests of Bahraini fishermen will not be compromised and their livelihood will not be endangered, the Prime Minister pledged yesterday.
This comes after 233 fishermen submitted a petition to the Premier and held several demonstrations in front of the Premier’s Court this week.
They are calling for full implementation of a law prohibiting non-Bahrainis from captaining boats and protecting fish resources from illegal fishing methods.
“Any violations that affect fish resources or marine environment will be dealt with strictly,” said the Premier at the meeting with the Fishermen’s Union.
By RASHA AL QAHTANI
THE interests of Bahraini fishermen will not be compromised and their livelihood will not be endangered, the Prime Minister pledged yesterday.
This comes after 233 fishermen submitted a petition to the Premier and held several demonstrations in front of the Premier’s Court this week.
They are calling for full implementation of a law prohibiting non-Bahrainis from captaining boats and protecting fish resources from illegal fishing methods.
“Any violations that affect fish resources or marine environment will be dealt with strictly,” said the Premier at the meeting with the Fishermen’s Union.
He said the government would not allow fierce competition or irresponsible actions that may harm the welfare of Bahraini fishermen or interfere with their livelihood.
He said the government’s goal was to support the fishing sector, preserve Bahrain’s fish resources and improve fishermen’s living standards.
“The presence of Bahraini boat captains on fishing boats prevents the exhaustion of resources, which are often caused by illegal fishing methods,” he said.
The Premier said the government was keen to create a balance between protecting fish resources and fishermen’s welfare in order to ensure ideal exploitation of marine resources.
“We want to transform the fishing occupation to an investment that could generate lucrative income for fishermen who represent a vast section of citizens,” he said.
“The sea will remain a livelihood and food source for Bahrainis and the government will work on preserving the industry.”
The fishermen suggested a number of proposals to solve the problems facing their profession.
Fishermen’s Union president Hussain Al Mughani said fishermen appreciated the Premier’s support and the immediate response to their demands.
“Our main demand was to keep Bahraini boat captains on fishing boats who are experienced in fishing methods and will not harm the marine resources,” he told the GDN.
“Our seas are nearly out of fish and most that are found are not from our waters.” He said there was a great risk of some fish types found in Bahrain becoming extinct, especially the Safi.
“There are many fishing boats in Bahrain and our waters cannot handle that many boats,” said Mr Al Mughani. “I would like to thank the Premier on behalf of the fishermen for his immediate response and support.
rasha@gdn.com.bh
