Fishermen striving for better quality, healthier dishes

Leonard Charles, the longest serving chairman of the Fisherman’s Day Committee, was awarded for his outstanding contribution to the fishing industry during the opening of this year’s Fisherman’s month.{{more}}

Fisherman’s Month is being held under the theme ‘Striving for Better Quality, within the Fishing Industry’, with the slogan “Quality Fish, Healthier Dish.” The opening ceremony took place on Friday, May 13, 2011, at the Fisheries Division Conference room.

Charles’s contributions included being a board member and secretary of the Goodwill Fisherman Cooperative and a board member of National Fisherman’s Marketing Ltd, as well as the past president of the Fisherman’s Day Committee.

Charles expressed his gratitude to the Fisherman’s Day committee, stating that he felt honoured to be awarded. Charles received a plaque, which was presented by Minister of Agriculture Montgomery Daniel.

The ceremony also featured remarks made by officials of the Fisheries Department. Welcoming the audience to the event, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Transformation, Forestry and Fisheries Nathaniel Williams stated that St. Vincent is a blessed with natural resources and that Fisherman’s Month is a tradition, in which the public is taught how to use the natural resources of the country.

Williams also highlighted the importance of children learning the importance of fish, as it is rich in protein. He further encouraged persons to consider the concept of intellectual property as persons may come up with a special way of preparing fish. “You have a right to protect that,’ he stated.

Winfield Tannis, chairman of the Fisherman’s Day committee, emphasized the need for dishes prepared by the fishermen to be healthy. He added that fish needs to be handled properly to ensure its safety for consumption.

Delivering the feature address, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Montgomery Daniel spoke about the importance of the fishing industry.

Daniel noted that the fishing industry plays a significant role in the process of economic diversification. He also highlighted that the industry had contributed significantly to the Gross Domestic Product of the country. He added that the demand for fish is increasing rapidly on the global market.

Daniel also noted the need for fishermen to be prepared and equipped when fishing and added that the industry plans to increase training for fishermen to improve on their fishing techniques.

The ceremony also featured remarks by Chief Fisheries Officer Raymond Ryan and cultural performances by Tizanna Atkins and Kelsey Haynes from the Girls’ High School, and a dance from the Biabou Methodist School.

The activities for Fisherman’s Month include Fish Nites at Calliaqua, Barrouallie and Owia; Beach Seine Competition, Japan Day, Junior and Female Fishing Competitions and a Church service. Fisherman’s Day is June 13.(OS)