No fish from other areas to be sold :

Problems of Negombo fishermen highlighted

by Mohammed Naalir

The problems of the fishermen of Negombo will be addressed soon. Preparing a mechanism to ensure that fresh fish is distributed to customers is vital, Deputy Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Kumara Gunaratne said.

Deputy Minister Gunaratne made these observations during a recent visit to the Negombo fisheries harbour to inquire into the well-being of fishermen, sources from the Deputy Minister's office said.

The Deputy Minister held discussions with Negombo fishermen. It was brought to his attention that fish varieties unsuitable for consumption are being brought to Negombo from other parts and also imported.

The Negombo fishermen experience immense difficulties in marketing their own harvest.

During the Deputy Minister's tour itself, a haul of inedible fish from the southern region was being landed at the Negombo fisheries harbour, according to the sources.

Gunaratne who listened to the problems of the Negombo fishermen said no permission will be granted to sell fish brought from other parts in Negombo.

Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Rajitha Senaratne has made arrangements to bring them to the Peliyagoda fish market, he said.