Fishermen encouraged to make their voices heard

The recent protest march by fishermen and the handing over of a petition to officials at Durban City Hall seems to have resulted in a positive outcome, Rising Sun Chatsworth reports.

Oral submissions from members of the public will be heard during the public hearings on the Marine Spatial Planning Bill presented by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs.

The KZN Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) has encouraged aggrieved fishermen to make their voices heard on Thursday, August 17, at the Chesterville Community Hall.

All fishermen who fish on the South Coast and elsewhere and interested persons are encouraged to attend this important meeting. Transport arrangements for South Coast residents are in place and a bus provided by DAFF will leave Moodley’s Spar in Craigieburn at 8:30am on Thursday, August 17.

READ MORE: Durban fishermen want access to all traditional fishing grounds

The Aliwal Shoal Rock and Surf Fishing Forum (ASRSFF) officials have stated that while the march in Durban was a resounding success, the number of people attending the march from the South Coast was very disappointing, although free transport was also available then.

ASRSFF officials have indicated that they want to raise the following matters: the effect on marine life by seismic exploration of oil and gas in our ocean, marine protected areas and registration for catching of small fish.

All fisherfolk are requested to roll up in big numbers and join them in this face to face meeting with government officials.  For information on transport, contact Allan on 083 263 1237.

READ MORE

Durban fishermen want access to all traditional fishing grounds

– Caxton News Service

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