MARGAO: It was an auspicious day for the traditional fishermen of Benaulim as they received blessings for themselves, their fishing boats and nets ahead of the fishing season which is set to recommence next month. This was followed by an appeal issued by the Benaulim Ramponkarancho Ekvott (BRE) to the Fisheries Dept to ensure that all the illegalities carried out by trawler owners every fishing season be stopped this year.
Fr Anthony Rodrigues, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Church, Benaulim prayed for God’s blessings towards the fishing community. He also pointed out that many fishermen have migrated to other countries in search of better opportunities and that the population of traditional fishermen is dwindling but that it is upon the community to ensure that Goa’s values and culture are preserved by them.
After the blessings, fishermen such as Jose Fernandes, BRE President and Pele Fernandes said that they will follow the guidelines laid down by the Dept but want the government to strongly act against any trawler indulging in bull trawling or LED lights. He warned that fishermen will protest if no action is taken. Pele pointed out that such illegal activities carried out by these large trawlers leave traditional fishermen without fish.
