Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi
2026-03-03
Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi raised a question directed at the Minister of Fisheries regarding a ban on beach seine (maadal) fishing imposed since December. He noted that a Presidential committee comprising five members from each side had reached a decision in February, and highlighted that the fishing season in the Puttalam District and Negombo area concludes in April, effectively leaving affected fishermen without income for the December–April period. He argued that requiring these communities to wait a further two months was unjust, particularly given that the inquiry had already been completed.
Mr. Speaker, I address this question to the Minister of Fisheries. I will take only a brief time. Since December, a ban was imposed on beach seine (maadal). In February, the President appointed a committee with five members from each side and a decision was taken. By April, the fishing season ends in Puttalam District and in the Negombo area. From December until April, how are these people to live? How are they to eat and drink? It is unfair to ask them to wait another two months. The inquiry has been completed, and—