“Being licensed not a requirement to benefit from $150,000 grant for fishermen”- Min. Mustapha 

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has made it clear that all marine fishermen across the country who earn their living at sea will benefit from the recently announced $150,000 one-off relief grant. 

The minister made this statement in light of misconceptions that were brought to his attention as it relates to the requirements to benefit from the grant. 

During an interview with members of the media, Minister Mustapha said that he had received reports that fishermen were being told that they had to be licensed to receive the grant. This, he noted, is not true.  

Minister Mustapha further stated that the Fisheries Department was instructed to develop two lists; one comprising licensed fishermen and the other with those who are unlicensed. These lists, he added, will be posted at every landing site across the country. The Minister stated that lists will be cross-checked to ensure fishermen do not register twice at different landing sites. Persons are also encouraged to contact the ministry on 227-5049 or 694-6878 to report any issues with the registration process.

President, Mohamed Irfaan Ali on May 31, announced a $150,000 one-off relief grant for fishermen across the country, during a meeting with fishermen from Windsor Forest and other surrounding villages in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).