MPs call for disbursement of subsidies to fishermen

Some Members of Parliament have called on the government to provide subsidies to fishermen, and to investigate the delay in disbursement of these subsidies.

They said this during the discussion at the parliament today, on the declaration presented by Mahchangolhi-dhekunu MP Mohamed Rasheed, calling for the provision of subsidies worth MVR100 million to fishermen, which had been included in the state budget of 2012.

MPs stressed that fishing is the main livelihood in the Maldives, and that the industry cannot be sustained unless fishermen are given subsidies.

MP Mohamed Rasheed said while presenting the declaration that the government had said earlier that the subsidy was not provided due to lack of funds. He pointed out, however, that the state was spending extravagantly in other areas.

Vilufushi MP Riyaz Rasheed said that the reason for delaying disbursement of subsidies to fishermen should be determined, and that the issue is currently at the sub-committee.

“This is not something the government is responsible for. We stressed even when MDP was the ruling party, that this subsidy should be provided,” he said.

Most MPs were in favour of the subsidy being provided, but those who opposed the idea said that the current challenges should be considered before the subsidies are disbursed.

The issue of corruption in government fisheries companies, which was also included in the declaration, was also discussed at today’s parliament sitting.