Politics

The Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Rathna Gamage, announced that the Ministry cannot take a clear position right now on the fishermen's Satyagraha protest. This protest demands the removal of the ban on using tractor-mounted winches for Madel (seine nets) fishing. He shared this information during a press conference today, February 9. Gamage explained that the fishermen have filed a court case against the Ministry's recent decision, which means a firm stance cannot be taken until February 27. He stressed the importance of the fishermen and urged them to collaborate with the Ministry. While the Ministry aims to protect the fishing community, he noted that the fishermen also have an essential role in ensuring the industry's future. He called on everyone to engage in positive discussions to find good and lasting solutions for the fishing sector. "At this moment, we cannot express a direct opinion. You have sought legal recourse and filed a case. A specific view cannot be provided until February 27. After the case and the verdict, we are ready to discuss and move forward by protecting both the environment and the fishing community through constructive dialogue," he stated. The protest began on February 5 in front of the Presidential Secretariat, led by seine fishermen from various coastal areas, including Mullaitivu and Kokilai. The protesters mentioned that while they had meetings with officials from the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the Presidential Secretariat, these discussions did not lead to any solutions. As a result, they have decided to continue their Satyagraha campaign without stopping.