Fishing Cooperatives are very important” – Deputy Premier
GIS - Thursday, March 7th, 2013 at 7:15 AM
Attendees at the National Fishermen’s Conference listen to the Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour, Dr. the Honourable Kedrick D. Pickering give remarks.
“Fishing cooperatives are very important… on Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke,” emphasised the Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour, Dr. the Honourable Kedrick Pickering at the first National Fishermen’s Conference held in the Territory last week.
Minister Pickering explained that it was important that each fisherman looks out for the other, “instead of each of us doing our own thing.”
He added, “We have got to become our brother’s keepers because our livelihood is at stake. If we protect the fish, the fish will protect us. If we protect the industry we will be able to catch fish, until we pass on.”
“We have got to turn fish into concrete…This means that you should be able to invest in the fishing industry to the point where you can make real money, build your house, send your children to college and have money for retirement,” the Minister expounded.
Staff from the BVI Fishing Complex, the Conservation and Fisheries Department, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour presented on various topics pertaining to the fishing industry in the Virgin Islands, including ‘Licensing and Registration’; ‘Adapting to Environmental Challenges: Invasive Species and Climate Change’ and ‘Formation of National and Community-Based Associations/Cooperatives.’ Fishermen were also given a chance to express concerns and provide necessary feedback.
The conference, which was held at Purcell Estate Community Centre, was sponsored by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour.
It was attended by over 50 fishermen and women.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour is committed to effectively managing, preserving and administering the territories natural resources in a manner that ensures long term sustainability.
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