Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture Zaha Waheed has stated only one fishing vessel was provided the monthly subsidy of USD 645 which was pledged by the previous administration.
Speaking in response to a question posed by a parliamentarian, Minister Zaha noted the previous administration had pledged to pay USD 645 to every fishing vessel on a monthly basis, regardless of the number of fish caught. The minister revealed only one vessel received this amount during the previous administration. She also added the ministry is not currently following through with this subsidy for fishing vessels, as it is not a policy of the current administration.
Speaking further, Minister Zaha said although there were several delays in paying fishermen for their catches during the previous administration, the new policies enforced by the current administration have ensured fishermen receive the payment for their catches without any significant delays. The minister added efforts are underway to improve the structure of the state fisheries company, Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) to arrange more efficient means of buying and selling fish.
The fisheries minister also revealed the administration is working on terminating the agreement signed with Island Enterprises Private Limited to develop Keekimini, Shaviyani Atoll as a hub for fisheries sales as the operations have still not commenced in accordance to the agreement. She also said the ministry is evaluating its options on the agreement signed to develop a fisheries harbour in Hoadehdhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll as the development has stalled.