THIRTY-EIGHT licensed boat owners and fishers from Soufriere have received a $430,000 Recovery Support Package from the Pierre Administration as a result of the hardships they endured this year, which included a dangerous storm surge in February which damaged several fishing vessels.
Months later, in July, Major Hurricane Beryl compounded their plight, causing extensive damage to many fishing assets in Soufriere.
A tour of the affected areas by Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre and Member of Parliament for Soufriere, Emma Hippolyte resulted in fishers being assured of government’s support.
The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development, led by Hon. Alfred Prospere, coordinated the critical response effort to provide crucial financial support to as many licensed boat owners and fishers impacted by the severe weather events.
On December 19, 2024, Ministers Hippolyte and Prospere joined Prime Minister Pierre to formally hand over a lifeline in the form of cheques to the affected fishers, helping them repair and restore their vessels and regain their livelihoods.