AN appeal to the government not to destroy the three Vietnamese blue boats has not been heeded.
Managing Director of Treasure Islands Export, Henry Star Dora, recently wrote a letter to the government requesting the boats not to be destroyed.
A copy of the letter dated 27/08/2017, addressed to the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources and the Attorney General, called for the immediate halt to the destruction process.
“I wish to reiterate our rural fishermen’s humble appeal, and indeed demanded for your immediate intervention,” Mr Dora stated in his letter.
“These boats as ordered by the High Court of Solomon Islands had become our valuable national assets that can be used by local fish exporters to purchase marine products from our rural fishermen out there in the Islands; significantly those from the very remote islands, hence they should be protected and should not be destroyed,” he stated.
Mr Dora added there are lucrative markets for our marine products at international markets that we have not tapped or explored as there is very little or no supply (marine products) at all because of the lack of appropriate equipment and infrastructure such as these boats/vessels, hence the decision by the committee is therefore inappropriate, inconsistent and not in-line with DCCG policies and objective to enhance economic growth and increase exportable products.
“Prime Minister, we are appealing and begging you personally and to your DCCG government, that please, these property should not be destroyed,
“You could have them leased to us, we have plans for those fishing boats, and they can be put to good use by those of us who have seen the need and potentials to enhance the rural coastal fisheries, advancing rural fishermen and rural community’s livelihood.
“These establishments will generate much needed foreign exchange into the country, cash to our rural communities as well as create more job opportunities,” the letter further stated.
Mr Dora then begs the Prime Minister for his immediate intervention, consideration in due course.
The three Vietnamese Blue Boats are set for destruction at a slipway in the Langalanga Lagoon of Malaita Province by local company Iona Firi sometimes this month under an agreement signed with the Ministry of Fisheries.
The decision to destroy the boats was in line with the recent High Court decision because the boats have failed to pass their sea worthiness examination as confirmed by the Solomon Islands Maritime Safety Administration.
Undersecretary (Technical) of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Ferral Lasi yesterday said the terms of sale to Iona Firi is contained in a legal document which was vetted by the Attorney General’s Chamber.
“Iona Firi Properties Limited will buy the three ceased engines and fix them at their own cost,” he said.
The three boats have been towed across to Langalanga lagoon awaiting their destruction and according to the MOU, Fisheries and Environment officers and Police officers will be present to oversee the whole process when the heavy oil, bilge and ballast waters are removed.
By TEDDY KAFO
