DURING formal observances of Fisherfolk Day yesterday, the focus was on the contributions of women in the fishery sector as it continues to expand. Women are playing a great leadership role in the further development of that industry in Guyana. Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy yesterday acknowledged the significant contributions women have made over the years, while addressing fisherfolk at the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries Department’s Fisherfolk Day celebration 2012 in Rosignol, Berbice.
“Guyana, her fisherfolk and the Guyanese family today celebrate Fisherfolk Day 2012. It is a time to celebrate the achievements of our fisherfolk and their families. It is a time to acknowledge the contribution of fishing in the development story of Guyana,” Minister Ramsammy posited.
And as Guyana celebrates Fisherfolk Day, he said the contributions of women in the fishing industry have been acknowledged. This year, he said, it should be proclaimed that women can play an even greater role in the further development of the fishing industry.
“Women have always played a significant role in fishing, mostly as supportive. But as we develop fishing as a significant part of the export portfolio of Guyana, and as aquaculture and processing become more and more important, women are beginning to play a leadership role in the fishing industry of Guyana,” he stressed.
Minister Ramsammy pointed out that while we celebrate the successes of the industry, we must also remember that the industry is one that is filled with challenges and tragic stories that haunt the past.
However, he said it is his belief that Guyana can do more to address the issues affecting the industry, while safeguarding the livelihood of fisherfolk.
He said while strides have been made in this regard over the years, the solutions somehow seem not to be enough to curb the continuous challenges in the sector.
“I am often embarrassed by the fact that we do not seem to have a continuous and sustained effort in addressing these challenges. Mostly, since independence, we have made some real genuine efforts to bring remedies; but these efforts never have staying power, and we always seem to return to the status quo,” Dr. Ramsammy informed.
He added that the fishing industry is an important component in Guyana’s economy and development, and he noted that the country is one of a few developing countries that have met their Millennium Development Goal of feeding their peoples.
“In terms of food security, the fishing industry provides a relatively cheap source of animal protein in the Guyanese diet; an essential element in meeting the dietary needs, in meeting the caloric intake, and in meeting the balanced meal criteria.”
Dr. Ramsammy stated that, in terms of the economy, the fishing industry provides employment to over 15,000 persons directly and indirectly. It also provides significant foreign exchange earnings, as it represents an average of just under 3% of GDP. Exports over the past three years average about 17,000 metric tonnes (mt) with an average value of Gy$10 billion.
“I would like, therefore, on behalf of all my Guyanese sisters and brothers, to formally salute the fisherfolk of Guyana.
“Guyana’s success story is one largely achieved through the sacrifices and perseverance of our people, and our fisherfolk are very much part of crafting our success story as a nation”.
He emphasised that while Guyana can genuinely boast of the successes in fishing, it must be acknowledged that there are growing challenges and threats that continue to loom over the industry in Guyana and around the world.
Fisherfolk Day 2012 is being observed under the theme, ‘The role of women in the fisheries sector.’