Fishermen are currently protesting at the Addu Fisheries Complex port over the non-payment of dues by MIFCO. The Maldives’ Fisheries and Ocean Resources Minister, Ahmed Shiyam, has assured that the government is listening very closely to the voices of the fishermen involved in the protest.
Speaking to state media, Minister Shiyam confirmed that the government is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant communication with the protesting fishermen. He highlighted that efforts are being made to arrange the money owed to them, with continuous updates being provided about the work being done by MIFCO and the government.
Minister Shiyam stated that the government is committed to fulfilling its promises in the fisheries sector, emphasising that leading sailors and activists involved in the protest are being engaged. “They are protesting to ensure the outstanding money is paid and to receive payments within 15 days of harvesting the fish. This is what the government is striving to achieve,” said Minister Shiyam.
The minister also mentioned that further details will be shared with the fishermen as banks reopen following the Eid holiday. He urged the protesters to maintain a peaceful approach and to avoid damaging state property. “The protests have been very peaceful so far. It will not be easy to take action against a fisherman who has damaged any state property,” he added.
Reflecting on previous protests, Minister Shiyam noted that the current government inherited significant challenges in paying the fishermen. When this administration took over, MVR 250 million in dues had not been paid to the fishermen according to Minister Shiyam. During the presidential election campaign, the purchase price of fish was increased to MVR 25 per kilogramme, which adversely affected MIFCO.
Since taking office, the government has made considerable efforts to clear the outstanding payments to fishermen. Last week, the Ministry of Fisheries released MVR 46 million to fishermen, leaving a remaining balance of MVR 45 million yet to be paid. To date, more than MVR 881 million has been disbursed to fishermen under the current administration.
Minister Shiyam’s reassurances come as a testament to the government’s ongoing commitment to addressing the concerns of the fishing community, ensuring their grievances are heard and resolved in a timely manner.
