Govt. Lifts Fishing Restrictions in North & East
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FRIDAY, 29 JUNE 2007
The Secretariat for Coordinating the Peace Process welcomes the decision of the Government to lift restrictions on fishing activities in the North and East Provinces, in a move designed to bring greater relief to the civilian population affected by conflict in the region. Following discussions with authorities in the Security Services and the Fisheries Ministry, President Rajapaksa issued a directive to increase opportunities for fishing with immediate effect.
The action accords with the current need to promote public confidence in the efforts to bring about peace and normalcy to the region, and to ensure awareness of the benefits of peace. The issue had been one raised anxiously with SCOPP by business leaders representating the Chambers of Commerce in the North and East, who urged action to make it clear that the Government was doing its best to accommodate the needs of the people in the region and to help improve the economy.
Lifting of restrictions on fishing was seen as of major importance in this regard. However it was also recognized at the meeting that restrictions were necessitated by the security situation and the continued use of fishing craft for military activities. Fears had been increased by the recent detection of a vessel carrying bombs among a flotilla of fishing boats.
The positive response of the government in such a context is therefore to be welcomed. However reports following the lifting of restrictions of untoward activity may raise fears again and lead to further restrictions. SCOPP therefore urges all parties to the conflict to work positively in accordance with the concession made, and to refrain from any activities that might jeopardise this and lead to further suffering for the people of the area.
Source:
www.lankamission.org
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