Over 2,000 Region Four fisherfolk receive $309M in cash grants

More than 2,000 fisherfolk in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) on Monday received the $150,000 fisheries cash grant as distribution continue, with a total of $309 million paid out to strengthen and support the sector.

The distribution exercise was held at the Everest Cricket Club in Georgetown, while a similar activity took place at Lusignan, East Coast of Demerara. The initiative is part of a commitment made by President Dr Irfaan Ali to deliver targeted support to fisherfolk across the country. Overall, approximately $1.4 billion is expected to be disbursed to fisherfolk nationwide.

Fisherfolk welcomed the payout, describing it as timely support amid challenging conditions.

Enos Singh, who has been in the sector for 53 years, said the funds will help him repair his boat after months without work.

“Me thank the government because me nah wuk about over four months… the money go help me do back the boat and put something aside,” Singh said.

Lilowattie Arjune, who has been fishing for about a decade, said the grant will assist with essential maintenance.

“I feel so happy. At least it would help with maintenance for the seine and the boat… it would help a lot,” she said.

Meanwhile, Lincoln Emanuel, who began fishing in 1997, told News Room the grant offers an opportunity to expand his activities. “It feels great. You get the grant and you could do some extra business with it,” he noted.

Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, in his remarks, said the Region Four payout represents a significant investment in the livelihoods of fisherfolk and noted that this is the second time they are receiving a cash grant under the current administration.

“We are ensuring that fisherfolk receive direct support. In Region Four alone, over 2,000 persons are benefiting, with more than $309 million being paid out,” Mustapha said, adding that the government is also making major investments to improve conditions within the sector.

He pointed to the rehabilitation of fishing landing sites as part of broader efforts to build resilience in the industry.

“We have extended large sums of money to rehabilitate these sites… we have made these sites more comfortable and have put in the basic facilities.

“Millions of dollars have been expended because we want the fishing industry to be resilient,” Mustapha said.

Mustapha also encouraged fisherfolk to use the grant to strengthen and expand their livelihoods, while taking advantage of support systems available through the National Fisherfolk Organisation and the Fisheries Department.