• To possess advanced climate change & alternative tech & operational methods 
• Talks underway to introduce mechanical boats, solar for boats, fishing ground forecasting vessel observation data analysis software  

The State Minister of Fisheries, Piyal Nishantha de Silva, announced plans to launch a new multi-day fishing trawler equipped with modern technology and advanced operational techniques to enhance the fishing industry.

Meanwhile, he further stated that President Ranil Wickremesinghe has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, via the Attorney General (AG), to facilitate the swift repatriation of the fishermen aboard the ‘Lorenzo Putha-Four’ fishing vessel back to Sri Lanka.

These statements were made by him during a press briefing held on Wednesday (13).

 “Challenges have arisen due to the rising fuel costs and the increased prices of fishing equipment, impacting the income of the fishing community. A committee comprising experts is actively planning the necessary initiatives to introduce a modern multi-day fishing trawler equipped with advanced technology and operational methods. Upon completion of the planning phase, the production of the new fishing trawler will commence. Additionally, the World Food Organisation has initiated several pilot projects. Among these initiatives is the development of a new trawler under the Ocean Freight Replenishment Programme, designed to align with changing times and incorporate climate change related and alternative technologies. Moreover, discussions have taken place between our Ministry, President Wickremesinghe, and the relevant institutions regarding the introduction of mechanical boats and boats utilising solar technology. Furthermore, with support from the Australian Government, a fishing vessel monitoring system has been implemented for multi-day fishing trawlers. Currently, the system has been installed on 2,350 multi-day fishing trawlers, with plans to cover all 4,200 targeted fishing vessels by the end of the first quarter (January-March) of next year (2025). Presently, there are ongoing efforts at the research level to forecast fishing grounds using vessel observation data. The necessary analysis software has already been developed, and plans are in place to integrate this fishing ground forecasting service once the fishing vessel monitoring system becomes fully operational next year. Additionally, preparations are underway to update the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Act, No. 02 of 1996 and introduce a new Act to replace the existing Act. It is anticipated that the new Legislation will include stringent measures to combat illegal fishing activities. Moreover, diplomatic discussions are being conducted between the countries to develop a comprehensive action plan aimed at addressing various issues plaguing the fishing industry. Furthermore, discussions have taken place between the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Navy, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the situation involving the ‘Lorenzo Putha-4’ vessel. The legal procedures are being conducted in accordance with the laws of Seychelles. President Wickremesinghe has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the AG, to expedite the legal proceedings in Seychelles and to facilitate the repatriation of the fishermen to Sri Lanka at the earliest opportunity”.