OFFICIALS from the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) travelled to Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara on December 3, 2014 to investigate allegations of harassment made by some fishermen, who are based in the area.The allegations were reported in the Stabroek News under the caption ‘Goed Fortuin fishers allege harassment’.

During investigations by MARAD officials, the fishermen stated that they told the reporter they were harassed by the Marine Police and that was perhaps misconstrued and interpreted as MARAD officials.

In that light, MARAD has refuted all of the false claims contained in the newspaper article. Further, it is advising all fishers to immediately report any incident of harassment to the Department or the nearest police station.

Meanwhile, MARAD once again is taking this opportunity to urge all fishers and other users of Guyana’s waterways to have their boats and themselves certified to operate.

Maritime Administration Department

December 10, 2014