The government has implemented a rebate programme to support local fishermen and strengthen the resilience of the fisheries sector against fluctuating fuel prices.
Fishermen across Saint Lucia have started receiving increased fuel rebates as pledged in the 2023/2024 budget address, signalling a tangible commitment by the Government of Saint Lucia to support the fisheries sector and promote sustainable livelihoods for fisher-folk.
A release from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) states that the Philip J Pierre Administration’s enhanced rebate programme will provide much-needed financial relief that our fishermen deserve.
Revenue from the rebate will bolster food security, reduce the operating costs associated with fishing and safeguard the livelihoods of our fishermen.
The increased fuel rebates for fisher – folk takes effect as government endeavours to alleviate financial strain and ensure the continued viability of small-scale fishermen.
Commenting on the benefits of this initiative, Andre Miller, a Vieux Fort fisherman, captain and boat owner with 43 years’ experience said: “Going fishing is like taking ‘dry money’ and going and wet it, because you don’t know what you will get on that day or what you will come back on shore with.” He argued that “sometimes you go for three or four days and you haven’t got nothing”
On an average, Miller explained, fishermen spend at least $300 to $750 per expedition, since they go to sea with four 15 gallons of gas and have to purchase oil, as well.
He continued that right now, we don’t have control over fuel, we don’t produce fuel in Saint Lucia, and we cannot blame the government for fuel prices. So we have to take it the way it is since the cost of living is going up around the world.
Speaking on behalf of the fisherfolks, Miller says they are grateful for this latest incentive from the government “for thinking of fishermen and giving that dollar rebate on every gallon of gas right now it is very timely and fishermen appreciate that.