Hon. (Dr.) Kavinda Heshan Jayawardhana

Hon. (Dr.) Kavinda Heshan Jayawardhana raised a second supplementary question noting that the fuel subsidy for fishermen had been provided only once in the preceding one and a half years. He also referenced a protest by fishermen before the Presidential Secretariat regarding permission to conduct shore-seine (*madal*) operations using winches, and sought an update on the progress made following discussions on that matter.

Dr. Jayawardhana raised a supplementary question concerning fuel supply disruptions affecting the fishing community, noting that panic buying of diesel and kerosene has led to a suspension of fuel sales via cans and barrels — a key access method for fishermen outside harbours. He asked the Government to specify what immediate mechanisms would be implemented, and what arrangements would be made upon the arrival of the next fuel cargo, to guarantee uninterrupted fuel access for fishermen, who he noted were among the hardest hit during the economic crisis.

## Summary Hon. (Dr.) Kavinda Heshan Jayawardhana submitted Written Question No. 744/2025 to the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources seeking information on the fishing industry workforce and social protection measures. The question requests the total number of persons currently employed in the fishing sector, and asks the Minister to confirm whether he acknowledges the need for an insurance scheme for fishermen. Additionally, the question seeks details on any proposed pension scheme for fishermen, or an explanation if no such measures are being considered.