2026-03-03 / Oral Question: Fishing Industry and Insurance (Q.744/2025) 2026-03-03
The Minister of Fisheries clarified that the government has not banned traditional madal fishing itself, but has sought to prohibit the use of winches and tractors in the practice due to environmental harm identified by NARA and other environmental reports. He noted that madal operators were given six months' notice to cease these practices, and that following subsequent protests, the President held discussions leading to an understanding to explore alternatives that would allow the fishery to continue without environmental damage. The Minister stated that consultations with stakeholders and experts are ongoing, and that necessary action will be taken within two months based on their findings. He directed Members wishing to discuss madal fishing in detail to raise the matter through an Adjournment Motion or separate Question.
Hon. Speaker, that is unrelated to the original question. If Members wish to discuss madal fishing, they may bring an Adjournment Motion or a separate Question and we will answer in detail. However, we have not obstructed madal fishing; it is a traditional method. What we have addressed is the use of winches and tractors, which, as established by environmental reports and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), cause significant environmental harm. About six months ago, we informed madal operators that such practices must cease within six months. After subsequent protests, His Excellency the President held discussions, and an understanding was reached to find ways to continue the fishery without environmental damage—considering alternatives, whether only winches may be used, and stopping tractor use. We are discussing this with stakeholders and environmental experts. In two months, based on environmental and expert reports, necessary action will be taken.