Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan has stated that the numerous problems in the fisheries sector can only be solved after fishermen are provided with opportunities to address their concerns.
Speaking at the Maldives Fishermen Forum in Faresmaathoda, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Minister Hassan detailed the work being done to solve the various issues in the fisheries sector. He described the issues as challenging to discuss but said that the fisheries sector can only be developed after fishermen are given the opportunity to speak freely.
Furthermore, Minister Hassan said forums are held to facilitate discussions and allow the relevant authorities to formulate plans and implement solutions. He expressed concern that not enough discussions are being held to talk about the major concerns in the fisheries sector and said that forums should be used to hold productive conversations instead of pointing blame and creating animosity. He assured that the government listens and adheres to the opinions of fishermen in order to address their concerns.
The forum was held as part of the Fishermen's Day celebrations in Faresmaathoda.