Fishers Celebrate International Fisherman’s Day in Portland

It was described as a family reunion when the island’s fishers and fish farmers recently converged at the Alligator Head Foundation in Portland, for this year’s International Fisherman’s Day celebration.

There was a domino tournament, health checks, prizes and giveaways, question and answer sessions against a backdrop of upbeat music and ample food.

For Discovery Bay Fishing Village fisherwoman, Sandra Byfield, it was an opportunity to meet new friends within the local fishing community, as well as a chance to be exposed to certain knowledge pertaining to the fishers that made the celebration truly worthwhile.

“This is very important because there are so many things going on and sometimes, we don’t even know, and we don’t even understand. So, when something like this is held it’s important so we get to understand what is going on in the industry,” Ms. Byfield told JIS News.

President of the Welcome Beach Fishermen’s Association, Shawn Thompson, who was among six fishers from that village who travelled from Clarendon to Portland for the event, was one of the day’s big winners.

Mr. Thompson, who says he looks forward to the occasion each year, answered a question correctly and was awarded a new igloo to boost his fish enterprise.

He described the celebration as “excellent,” telling JIS News that “it’s a great feature.”

“We give thanks to all the sponsors, because everybody can go home smiling and the support that we got was enormous,” Mr. Thompson said.

He emphasised that fishers play a vital role in the nation’s food security. “Fishermen hold up the country and put food on the tables,” he added.

Chief Executive Officer of the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), Dr. Gavin Bellamy, also underscored the importance of fisherfolk and the necessity for Jamaica to participate in International Fisherman’s Day celebration each year.

“Our fisherfolk are food heroes. (They are) the people who go out through the windy weather, high seas and dangerous conditions to provide us with all the delights from the sea,” Dr. Bellamy pointed out.

Over the years the celebration has taken place at different locations and the Alligator Head Foundation in Portland, according to Dr. Bellamy, matches the current focus of the NFA.

“This location matches with what we are doing. There is a fish sanctuary here – a protected area – and we are developing and encouraging sustainable fisheries. The fish sanctuaries are a part of the sustainability process,” he said.

“Today has been totally awesome. Almost every parish is represented, and the camaraderie is great. It is something that we are proud to do to show the fishers and fish farmers how much we respect and care for them. This is a family reunion,” Dr. Bellamy added.

Observed on June 29 annually, International Fisherman’s Day is an opportunity to recognise the contributions of fishers to the local food network and the broader economy, while also raising awareness about sustainable fishing practices.