The volcanic eruption in Tonga has affected the availability of fish catchments for Fiji’s maritime islands, says the Labasa Fish Market acting president.

The acting president, Sakiusa Rakoso, claimed their sales has been affected as fishers were not able to find any fish to catch.

Mr Rakoso said those who usually supply fish to the market had a hard time finding a decent catch at their usual spots.

He said that the fish might have travelled away due to the earlier low depression and the recent Tropical Cyclone Cody.

“In addition to the drought of fish is the volcanic eruption in Tonga two weeks ago,” Mr Rakoso said.

“The fishermen are only able to bring in two bundles of fish instead of 10 and that is a waste of fuel and time going out to sea.

“This causes the prices to spike as we adjust ourselves to the costs as well.”

Fish vendor, Letila Ditamana, who has been selling fish for five years as her main source of income, believes that the climate and catastrophic events are what have affected their sales.

“Our income helps provide for our own families and pay for bills,” Ms Ditamana said.

“We hope the weather clears up and we will have enough fish to sell to our consumers.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau said what the fishermen claims about the climate affects could be true.

“The bad weather has been a long one and to me that could be the most significant contributor,” Mr Koroilavesau said.

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