Fishermen's fuel subsidy to be resumed

The fuel subsidy which had been provided to fishermen by the Government, which had been suspended temporarily due to the misuse of funds, has been resumed.

Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Development Minister Rajitha Senaratne said measures have been taken to resume the provision of the subsidy from under a new strategy. The fuel subsidy was granted to fishermen after the fuel price hike. The scheme was halted temporarily due to some fishermen misusing the subsidy.

The All Ceylon Common Fishermen's Association said the subsidy has been halted due to various irregularities in the distribution mechanism. It said the fishermen have not yet received the subsidy for March.

The Minister said the coupons to be distributed among the fisher-folk have already been received and distribution will take place soon. Dr Senaratne said measures will be taken to issue an electronic fuel card which will clearly display the fuel subsidy available for each fisherman.

The amount will decrease with the procurement of fuel.

The Government has issued nearly Rs. 3.7 billion worth of fuel to fishermen from March 2012 up to February 2013.