The Pathfinder Foundation stated that immediate steps needs to be taken to halt the effects that the country may face as a result of Indian Fishermen entering Sri Lankan waters and also pointed out that fish resources worth over 60 Million US Dollars are poached annually by Indian fishermen from Sri Lankan waters.
The Foundation also stated that as Indian Fishermen have been poaching in Sri Lankan waters for decades, Sri Lankan fishermen are faced with numerous issues. The foundation notes that the use of illegal fishing techniques by the Indian fishermen have had an unfriendly impact on the industry.
They went on to note that fishermen from Tamil Nadu at times ignore the policies imposed by the Indian Central Government and enter Sri Lankan waters.
Chairman of The Pathfinder Foundation Bernard Goonetileke noted that after a lapse of 20 to 30 years the Central Govt. has made a clear statement for the first time. At this point the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has presented a bill to the parliament which contains regulations against the use of illegal fishing equipment.
The Pathfinder foundation opines that the two countries should have fruitful discussions in this regard and arrive at a decision. It adds that it is the responsibility of the Government to provide a suitable solution to the Sri Lankan fishing community.
News 1st DIGITAL