He mentioned that the Project has granted Rs. 500 million to the Ministry and discussions were held with the stakeholders including respective authorities, fishers and other relevant parties.

A fisheries insurance scheme and a fisheries loan scheme was launched at this event based on the financial aid granted by the Port City project.

“Taking into consideration the requests made by certain fishers, I enlightened the project representatives that the local fisher communities could be affected by this project. As a result, the project took measures to grant Rs. 500 million to execute livelihood development projects in case the fisher communities in Western and North-Western provinces are likely to be affected by the project.

Numerous opinions were expressed regarding the inshore dredging limits for the constructions of the project and taking into account the environmental factors the place of dredging was later changed to two spots in the sea between Negombo and Chilaw. Later, one of the spots was disregarded since it was reported to be hugely inhabited by fish and the other spot was decided to be used for dredging. Also, dredging will follow prior notice so that the fishing activities of the area will not be hindered” said the Minister.