News
No takers for fish, fishermen despair
People in the fishing industry are urging the government to take measures to protect them from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
When the Peliyagoda cluster was detected, fish sales collapsed as a result of fears that the virus could spread through fish. This saw negative consequences, including the complete closure of some fish markets in many areas.
According to Chandra Fernando, the National Organiser of the National Fisheries Federation, “The fish we caught could not be sold even at a cheaper price.” He added, “Local fish markets were closed and we tried to sell our catch on the street, but people can’t even be tempted to buy a kilo for ten rupees. Our fishermen have lost their income and are dejected.”
He said health authorities had ignored the fishing communities. He opines that, “If health officials conduct PCR tests for those who sell fish and provide a proper identification, issuing a certificate, then they could proceed with selling fish. While the pandemic is still unfolding, there is an urgent need to coordinate, and introduce a remedy for this problem,” he said.
Nihal Silva, who runs a mobile fish shop in Ratnapura, also said, “People are reluctant to buy fish. It is sad that many people erroneously believe the coronavirus can be transmitted by eating fish.”
Moratuwa Municipal Councilor Ravindra Ranga Fernando said “Most fishermen have completed PCR tests but there are some other tests to be conducted for those who sell fish. I believe that if any investigations are carried out on these traders and a certificate is issued, it will help allay the fears of the people regarding fish consumption.”