Closed fishing season is to replenish dwindling fish stock - Fisheries Minister

Minister of Fisheries, Elizabeth Afoley Quaye says this year's closed fishing season will be observed from the 7th of next month to the 4th of September.

Making a statement on the floor of the House, the Minister said the policy has become necessary in order to save Ghana's dwindling fish stock.

According to her, studies show that if urgent measures are not taken, Ghana will run out completely of fish stock in three years.   

The Minister admitted that the implementation will have some economic and social impact on fishermen and fishmongers.

Some of these she said are loss of income and unemployment during the period. She however announced measures to deal with the expected negative impact of the policy.

Minority MPs have however expressed concern over the timing of the ban on fishing in August. 

The MP for Ablekuma South, Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, says while the decision is good, the timing is bad. According to him, it will greatly affect the people of Accra especially during the celebration of Homowo. 

Deputy Ranking member on Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Chereponi, Samuel Jabanyite says the government must undertake further studies and research to ensure the right decision is taken.
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