The setting up of fish sanctuaries is a welcome move in Jamaica. There will now be a chance for the growth of our fish stock and subsequently a reversal in the practices and backward thinking of many of our fishermen on the island's coasts.

I admire the vision of Agriculture Minister Christopher Tufton for the development of fish sanctuaries and the way in which he has secured the different areas of focus to foster the development in these sanctuaries.

I grew up on the coast of Hanover just on the outskirts of Lucea where lies a little fishing village, Orange Cove, known for catching fish using seines, ocean boats in the early days and currently coastal pot fishing.

Complaints

Residents of my little fishing village have long complained about the depletion of fish stock. Yet, it is amazing how these same fisherfolk contribute to their own demise. I have never heard of persons from my village speak of dynamiting fishes but I have been told it is prevalent in the parishes nearer to Kingston. I don't know what measures can be taken to dissuade fisherfolk from engaging in these activities.

With this new initiative by the present administration there has to be a follow-up programme to oversee these places to ensure that things are right. The lagoons, bays and coves have to be examined on a regular basis to deter unscrupulous characters from sabotaging this scheme. Our fishermen need to be educated about this new development.

The marine police will have to open their eyes to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. These policemen have to be more proactive than reactive in securing what is best for us. Persons from other countries who invade our territorial waters must be stopped to prevent our investment from going to waste.

I am, etc.,

PARIS TAYLOR

bighot43@yahoo.com

Greater Portmore