Fishers receive new boats

The leaders and members of Lautoka Fishers Cooperative Limited (LFCL) play a key role in promoting honesty, fairness, and transparency, running their business ethically, and setting a good example for new fishers’ cooperatives.

Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu made the remarks while handing-over fishing equipment to LFCL at the Lautoka Fishing Port on Thursday.

This included two seven-metre fiberglass fishing boats, each with two 60-horsepower outboard engines and two fuel drums, to help the cooperative maintain steady fish supply for its seafood business.

Ms Bainivalu acknowledged the support of Japanese government to LFCL, which included the registration of the Lautoka Fishers Association (LFA) as a cooperative.

The Ministry of Fisheries provides the items to achieve one of its commitments under Sustainable Development Goal 14, focusing on Life Below Water.

LFCL is a pilot project in Fiji and the Pacific Island Countries (PICs), a collaboration between the Ministry of Fisheries and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The Ministry of Fisheries in the Western Division is running this pilot project, which will be duplicated in other parts of Fiji and Pacific countries.

“The purpose of this fishing equipment is to support your fishing business ventures and ensure that maximum benefits are achieved while also promoting sustainable fishing practices,” Ms Bainivalu said.

“I urge you to maintain a consistent supply to this market and, most importantly, to foster trust and support among your team.”

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj