A discussion between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Madel (beach seine net) fishermen who staged a protest in front of the Presidential Secretariat was held yesterday afternoon (13) at the Presidential Secretariat.
The President invited the protesting fishermen for talks and engaged in an extensive discussion, during which representatives briefed him on the current situation of the Madel fishing industry. They explained that while the industry commenced in 2010, labour-related issues led to the adoption of the winch method from 2013 onwards.
According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the fishermen’s representatives expressed their gratitude to the President for granting them the opportunity for dialogue and for paying attention to their concerns.
After listening to the matters raised, President Dissanayake emphasized that the Government has no intention of undermining anyone’s livelihood while seeking solutions to issues surrounding the Madel fishing industry. He reiterated that the Government remains committed to strengthening the economic conditions of all communities.
The President noted that any resolution must take into account complaints from the broader fishing community, concerns raised by environmental organisations, and reports from State institutions engaged in scientific research, as well as relevant bodies under the Ministry of Fisheries.
He stressed the importance of preventing economic harm to fishermen, ensuring environmental protection, safeguarding marine resources in line with international conventions for the benefit of future generations, and prohibiting the use of banned fishing methods.
According to the PMD, it was agreed that all parties would work together to propose suitable solutions through discussions within a short period. The fishermen also agreed to call off the protest.
Further discussions involving all relevant stakeholders are scheduled to commence next Monday. It was also agreed to arrange talks with the Ministry of Finance to address leasing and other payment-related issues faced by those engaged in the industry under the current method during the discussion period.
