The Hon. Stephanie Fernando

Hon. Stephanie Fernando directed a series of questions to the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources regarding the regulation of the traditional *madal* (shore-seine) fishery in Sri Lanka. She sought information on the geographic distribution of this fishery, the licensing framework governing participation, and the rules around mechanisation — specifically whether tractors and winches are permitted or have been prohibited, and the rationale for any such prohibition. She further requested details on how many operators were previously authorised to use machinery and over what period. Additionally, Fernando asked about the scientific basis for regulating mechanical equipment, whether offshore distance limits apply to *madal* operations, and whether the relevant ministries oversee these matters — implicitly raising concerns about unresolved issues flagged by *madal* fishing communities regarding the use of machinery.