Over 800 Reg. 3 fisherfolk receive Govt cash grant

Following President Dr Irfaan Ali’s announcement in November 2025 of a major support package for the nation’s fisherfolk, including a $150,000 one-off cash grant and the removal of taxes on key materials used in the sector, these persons have now received the grants in full, providing a significant boost to their operations.

The first leg of the distribution was handed out at Uitvlugt, Region Three, where Minister within the Agriculture Ministry, Vikash Ramkissoon, underscored the Government’s commitment to strengthening and sustaining the fishing industry through efforts like the cash grant.

More than 800 fisherfolk gathered to receive $150,000 each. The initiative is part of the Administration’s ongoing efforts to boost productivity and sustainability in the fishing sector, as promised by President Dr Irfaan Ali.

At the event, Minister Vikash Ramkissoon highlighted the importance of the grant and the Government’s broader commitment to supporting fisherfolk and ensuring food security for the nation.

“Today we are here to fulfil the commitment that the President has made to you, the fisherfolk, by providing this $150,000 cash grant across the country. I want you to give a big round of applause for your president,” Minister Ramkissoon said, encouraging attendees to recognise the administration’s efforts.

He went on to express his personal understanding of the challenges faced by fisherfolk, drawing parallels between his own experiences and the struggles endured by fishermen, and said that he could relate to their hardships because of his upbringing. The Minister acknowledged that life for fisherfolk is often uncertain and difficult but emphasised the vital role they play in maintaining the country’s food security.

“I want to thank you for the great work you are doing, playing your part to feed our nation… I know first-hand the challenges that fishermen and their families face. Many of you here understand these difficulties well, and I can relate to them… Life for fisherfolk is challenging, filled with uncertainties, but what is important is that you continue to play your part in making this country food secure,” he said.

Minister Ramkissoon also took the opportunity to contrast the current administration with past Governments, highlighting the importance of fulfilling promises.

“There are two things I want you to remember. First, you have a government, a party, and a president that honour the commitments we make. Unlike others in the past, who made tall promises and forgot them once elected, we deliver on what we say,” he stated.

He reminded the fisherfolk of past injustices and political controversies, underlining the non-partisan nature of the cash grants. “This cash grant is not won in isolation. Remember when the cash grant for your children was snatched away? At that time, people accused us of political games. Today, however, we are here not because of elections but because we want our people to progress,” Minister Ramkissoon said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar acknowledged that some individuals had raised concerns after their names were not included on the list of cash grant recipients. He assured that provisions would be made to address these cases.

“If your name is not on the list, do not blame those whose names are. We have more to support, and we will make sure no one is left out. The Minister is aware of the situation, and arrangements will be made to include those who missed out,” Minister Indar stated, emphasising that the Government was committed to ensuring all eligible fisherfolk benefit from the initiative.