Fishing Industry, a major contributor to GDP
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- Created on Monday, 30 July 2012 20:32
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The per capita fish consumption in Sri Lanka has increased up to 15 kilograms. It was only 11 kilograms in 2009. The Ministry of Fisheries has taken several measures to increase fish production and encourage fish consumption as it is a main ingredient for reducing malnutrition.
Declare opening the Nilwella Fisheries Harbour built at a cost of Rs.450 million in Matara. Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Dr.Rajitha Senaratne said that construction activities of all fisheries harbours, anchor lodges and fish landing centres which are essential for the development of the fisheries industry will be completed by 2015. The harbour has the capacity to control over 180 fishing vessels.
The Minister said another 10 new fisheries harbours will be built during next three years. He said that the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry has taken measures along with the Ceylon Fisheries Harbours Corporation (CFHC) to build the fisheries harbours.
The Minister said that it has been planned to develop facilities and technology in the fisheries harbours and the industry. He also emphasised that the government will increase the fish harvest and eradicate mal-nutrition from Sri Lanka by next year, and the fishing industry will make a vital contribution to the national economy through the fish exports.
Youth Affairs and Skills Development Minister Dullas Allahapperuma, Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Minister Chandrasiri Gajadeera, Matara District MP Sanath Jayasooriya, Southern Provincial Fisheries Minister D.V.Upul and Provincial Education Minister Chandima Rasaputhra also participated at this function.(niz)
