The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries will receive over $11 million this year, to enhance the safety, comfort and productivity of fisherfolk.
Through the Volcanic Eruption Emergency Project (VEEP), Budget 2024 will complete designs and commence construction and rehabilitation activities on fisheries centres in Chateaubelair, Owia and Calliaqua.
Budget 2024 allocates an additional $750,000 from the money earned from the dredging activity to establish safe and sanitary facilities for the fishers operating out of Lowman’s Bay and Shipping Bay.
Similarly, a further $1.6 million, to complete the Barrouallie Black Fish Processing Facility.
Minister Gonsalves said “This facility – the first seafood processing facility dedicated to a single type of marine life – will improve the handling, processing, storage and marketing of blackfish and its by-products both locally and regionally.”
“Further, on the heels of their active cooperation in building the Barrouallie Blackfish Processing Plant, the Japanese Government has very recently agreed to provide a $5.6 million grant to procure equipment in support of the fisheries subsector – particularly at the Kingstown Fish Market and the Barrouallie Blackfish facility. This equipment – which will include refrigeration systems, ice makers, sealers, vacuum packers and lifts – will be procured this year, and will boost the quality and “exportability” of seafood.” said the Finance Minister.
“We have also collaborated with the ALBA bank to introduce the Solidarity Fishing Fleet Enhancement Programme. The Solidarity Fishing Fleet project will spend $4.4 million this year to purchase and equip 4 modern tuna boats, in the first instance, and to train fishers in the operation of those vessels and the business of commercial fishing. On completion of their training, we will assist fishers with demonstrated interest and aptitude to operate their own commercial tuna boats,” said Gonsalves
He also explained that for more interested in procuring their own boats and engines, Budget 2024 will continue with Phase II of the Fishing Development Project, which provides the down payment to fishers seeking to borrow money for smaller boats and supplies. The Minister outlined that the $500,000 allocated to this project in 2024 will unlock $2.5 million worth of private sector financing for fishers. The $27 million worth of production supports to farmers and fishers also includes safety gear for these fishers, bait wells for their boats, and retractable canopies to keep fishers and their catch out of the sun.
The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines says the $11 million investment in fishing, and the $27 million allocation to production supports, are exciting and powerful catalysts for improved production in the agriculture and fisheries sector.
