Seasonal fishing ban to safeguard marine life

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

MP Dr. Hisham Al-Asheeri has expressed his support for the recently implemented ban on fishing for sea bream, and grouper during the months of April and May, aimed at preserving Bahrain’s marine resources and ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks.

The ban is part of ongoing efforts to regulate fishing operations and protect the local marine environment.

Dr. Al-Asheeri commended the environmental decisions designed to safeguard the sea and protect the reproductive cycles of marine species, noting that these efforts enjoy widespread support from all stakeholders, including fishermen.

Direct economic impact

However, he emphasised the importance of addressing the direct economic impact on the fishermen whose livelihoods are disrupted during the ban.

“In order to effectively implement such environmental measures, it is crucial to accompany them with clear plans to support those affected. Fishermen, whose primary source of income is suspended, should receive fair and comprehensive financial compensation during this period of enforced downtime,” Dr. AlAsheeri stated.

Highlighting the national responsibility towards protecting both the environment and the livelihoods of Bahraini citizens, Dr. Al-Asheeri called for financial assistance to ensure the stability of fishermen and their families during the ban.

Cost-of-living allowance

He also underscored the need to restore the cost-ofliving allowance for fishermen, which has become a vital source of support for those whose income is heavily impacted by seasonal shifts in the fishing industry.

Dr. Al-Asheeri further urged the government to suspend administrative fees for fishermen during the fishing ban, advocating that they should not be burdened with additional financial strains while their work is temporarily halted.

He emphasised the urgent need to reinstate Tamkeen’s support for the sector, recognising it as an essential development tool that empowers Bahraini fishermen and enhances the sector’s overall capabilities.