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Local Fisherfolk Undergo Boat Masters Training

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A Boat Masters Training Programme, dedicated to improving the safety of fishers at sea and enhancing the industry’s efficiency while ensuring that each catch is properly stored and safe for public consumption, is underway in Saint Lucia.

It is part of the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) Boat Masters Training Programme, launched last November at the Department of Fisheries.

The programme runs twice weekly at strategic locations across the island, including Gros Islet, Vieux Fort, Dennery, and Castries.

Henix Joseph, UBEC Fisheries Technical Officer, said that the Blue Economy encompasses understanding the economic benefits derived from our waters and seas. He emphasises the critical need to assess safety issues within the fishing sector.

After completing the programme, participants will receive ‘grab bags’ containing essential navigational aids like flares, radios, and Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment. Joseph underscored the importance of training fishers to utilize these tools effectively.

Thomas Nelson, Deputy Chief Fisheries Officer at the Department of Fisheries, said that the training is designed to enhance the capacity of boat captains and fishers, enabling them to navigate and maintain their vessels more effectively at sea. He stresses the importance of understanding the ‘rules of the road’ or ‘rules of the sea,’ which are crucial for safe navigation.

Nelson also pointed out the pressing need for this initiative, as there have been numerous incidents of fishers getting lost or facing distress at sea.

One hundred and fifty fishers have registered for the programme, a number anticipated to increase significantly in the coming weeks.

The Department of Fisheries is collaborating with the Marine Unit of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) to deliver the training.

Corporal Benedict Charles, from the RSLPF Marine Unit, affirms the importance of the programme, noting that there have been numerous ‘search and rescue’ missions over the years. He acknowledges the progress made by fishers in prioritising safety.

Regarding the legalities of sea navigation, Charles warns it is illegal to operate without the requisite equipment on board.

Al-Dean Lous-Fernand, a former boat owner and fisherman for 15 years, supports the training. He describes it as a vital refresher course that expands knowledge about fishing practices.

Lous-Fernand appreciates the hands-on training from the Marine Police, which enhances the learning experience through shared insights and experiences.

At last year’s launch, the objective to educate and train fisherfolk throughout Saint Lucia on various methodologies and procedures to enhance safety at sea.

Through the Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC), UBEC is executing several initiatives to bolster resilience and capacity in the agricultural sector, directly supporting fisherfolk and key stakeholders. The initiative will provide essential equipment, including grab bags, ice-making machines, ice coolers, stainless steel fish processing tables, fish trays, and display cabinets to various fishing cooperatives to facilitate proper handling and storage of fish.

Furthermore, there are plans for constructing and deploying Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) and providing navigational lights for fishing vessels, which will be installed at the entrances of fishing ports and jetties.

Upon completing the Boat Masters Training Programme, fisherfolks will receive certification, confirming their enhanced skill set. The curriculum will cover vital topics, including Nautical Terminology, Radio Voice Procedure, First Aid, and Rules of the Road.

R.A.

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