Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture, Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan has said the most number of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) were placed this year. He made the remark while speaking at the official function held in Faresmaathodaa, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, to mark the 42nd Fishermen’s Day.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Hussain said 30 FADs were placed this year alone. The minister highlighted the efforts made and efforts being made by the government to develop the fishing industry. He said that all the FADs that were pledged by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's manifesto have been placed.
Noting the government works to solve the problems faced by the fishermen, Minister Hussain noted there is still a lot of work to be done and it will take some time to find a permanent solution. The minister highlighted many of the issues raised at the Fishermen's Forum held on the occasion of Fishermen's Day, adding the supply of fish is increasing and the demand for fish is decreasing as many countries rely on the Indian Ocean for fishing. He said the fishing ratio should be reduced as concerns about the decline in fish stocks in the Indian Ocean are increasing.
In conclusion, Minister Hussain stressed the importance of processing fish and producing various products to get fair prices for fish.