Gov’t to give credit to canoe owners

Ms Sherry Ayittey, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, has assured the Canoe Owners Association of government efforts in establishing a micro credit system to improve their operations.

She said her outfit would organise a national conference for stakeholders in the industry to agree on the terms of payment, discuss challenges, prospects and chart the way forward in improving the sector.

Ms Ayittey gave the assurance when the Association paid a courtesy called on her in Accra to share their grievances and dialogue for amicable solutions.

She said the Ministry recognises their contributions and as such a draft policy has been prepared to develop the sector and awaiting parliamentary approval for its implementation.

Ms Ayittey noted that the Ministry has completed a cold store at Prampram, in the Greater Accra Region, to support the fishing community and it is due to be handed over in May, while plans are advanced to have a landing site at Teshie and James town for the Canoe Owners.

Mr Adjetey Tawiah, General Secretary of the Association, said the Fishery Act 625 do not make provision for the inclusion of members of the organisation, although they form a larger part of the fishing industry and called for the review of the law to ensure their inclusion.

The Association also called on the authorities to include members in the premix committee and ensure broader consultation among stakeholders in addressing pertinent problems facing the industry.