Honourable Minister MEDICT, Mr. Kyle Hodge, ventured out to sea with a group of local fishermen to get a fist hand look at their operation and to discus their needs in helping to improve the industry. The time at sea with Captain Kamal Smith and first mate, Conrad Gumbs, proved to not only produce a fruitful catch but insight that will be used to structure the necessary improvements over the upcoming months.
Discussions concerning the replacing the fuel station at the wharf in Island Harbour and installation of one in Sandy Ground are advancing, and a further update will be issued in the upcoming weeks. The department of Fisheries has been tasked with making a Clear Path/Channel in Island Harbour, as the size and number of vessels using this facility is increasing. There are improvements to be made to the wharf as well. A timeline for addressing such is forth coming. While it is not within scope and budget to extend or widen the wharf to allow for multiple vehicles, a meeting with all individuals who use the facility was held to devise a use policy to improve the efficiency with which the wharf is used.
Commenting on the experience Minister Hodge said “I’m grateful to the captain and crew of Ace for taking us aboard and allowing us all the ability to experience what the life of fisherfolk is like. I’ve long admired and respected those who brave the seas to feed their families, their country and to make a living. That admiration and respect is renewed and magnified after braving the rough seas myself to experience the life of a fisherman or woman. As Minister with responsibility for fisheries, I pledge to work hard for fisherfolk of Anguilla. I am cognizant of the impact inflation and high fuel prices are having on your livelihood, and I have begun talks with a major fuel supplier about ways in which we can lighten that burden. All things considered, the experience on sea will live with me forever as I forge to make things better for all fisherfolk in Anguilla.”
