Dear Editor,
I run a small shop in a fishing area, and over the years I have come to know many fishing people. Some of them pass early in the morning, before the place even get bright, and they come back later in the day hoping that the catch was good enough.
When fishing people do well, everybody around them does feel it. The shop does sell a little more. The market gets busier. The people who sell ice, fix engines, drive vehicles and help with loading and selling fish also benefit. So fishing is not just about the man in the boat. It helps plenty families in the community.
That is why I understand when fisherfolk get worried about oil and gas work offshore. The sea is where they make their living. If something changing out there, people will ask questions. That is natural.
But I do not think we should make it look like it has to be oil against fishing. Both of them are important to Guyana. The main thing is that the work must be done properly, and fishing people must not be left out.
From what I understand, more studies are being done offshore so people can know better what is happening under the sea. That is a good thing, because before you put anything out there, you should know the area properly. You should know what places need protection and how to avoid creating problems for others who depend on the sea.
I also believe some of the money coming from oil must continue to help fishing communities. When government helps with things like cold storage, engines, fuel, seines and other equipment, that makes a difference. These things cost plenty money, and many fisherfolk are not rich people. Any help that lowers their cost or helps them save more of their catch is important.
The cash grants also would have helped some families. It may not solve every problem, but it is still assistance at a time when expenses are high.
To me, the answer is not to fight down one industry to protect another. The answer is to manage both properly. Fishing has fed Guyanese families for generations, and oil is now bringing money that can help develop the country. What matters is that communities like ours must also see the benefit.
The fishing boat and the oil vessel may both be out there on the water, but they do not have to be enemies. With good sense, proper planning and respect for the people who depend on the sea, both can help Guyana.
The sea has always provided for this country. I believe it can continue to provide, once we take care of it and make fair decisions.
Sincerely,
Rajesh Panday
