Fisherfolk commemorate Fishermen’s Feast
Wednesday, June 30, 2021
by Anicia Antoine, Ministry of Agriculture
INTERESTS IN THE FISHING SUB SECTOR CAME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE CARIBBEAN FISHERFOLK DAY.

Fishermen's Feast commemorates the feast of Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, with the theme “Better Care for a Better Share — Establishing a Creative Small-Scale Fishing Sector." On this day, fisherfolk across the board are highlighted for their hard work and dedication to the fishing industry. The festivities for Fishermen’s Feast included a church service, a blessing of boats, and a prize-giving ceremony for the Fishermen’s Feast Fishing Competition.

Registrar of Cooperatives and Friends Societies, Mr. Egbert Stephens, said fisherfolk are at the heart of the industry, playing a critical role in the sustainable utilization of fisheries resources in the face of a changing global climatic and economic situation.

While the quantity and demand for fish and fish products continue to rise, both fishing and aquaculture provide a substantial source of food, employment, and revenue. Mr. Stephens explained that while the COVID-19 pandemic may have taken a toll on the fishing industry, it is still of great importance to reflect on the changing global state of fisheries resources, the economic climate, and the environmental conditions within which fishers operate.

Meanwhile, Diane Mathurin, Secretary of the Board of the Castries Fishermen's Cooperative Society, reiterated the commitment of the Fishermen’s Cooperative to working alongside the Department of Fisheries and its associate agencies to empower fisherfolk and build their resilience.