With the aim of transforming the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation into a profitable institution while ensuring the public can purchase fish products at subsidized prices during the upcoming Sinhala and Hindu New Year, a special progress review meeting was held today (06) at the Fisheries Corporation premises under the patronage of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar and Deputy Minister Ratna Gamage.
Addressing the meeting, Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar instructed officials to provide fish varieties such as parrot fish (coppara) and sword fish (sappara) to the public at concessionary prices under the theme “New Fish for the New Year at New Prices.” Special attention was also given to expediting the payment of Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and gratuity benefits to employees of the Fisheries Corporation in line with provisions made by the President.
Discussions also focused on accelerating debt settlement through Treasury allocations, implementing the freezer truck project under Japanese assistance, and expediting the construction of a new 150-metric-ton capacity freezer and blast freezer facility, which will be built at an estimated cost of Rs. 86 million.
Deputy Minister Ratna Gamage stated that despite prevailing economic challenges, the government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of employees. He noted that the recently granted Rs. 10,000 incentive allowance reflects this commitment. He further emphasized the importance of working together beyond political differences for the development of the institution and maintaining cleanliness and order within the organization.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Fisheries Corporation, Mohammad Nowras Nasar stated that in the future, no new outlets will be established without conducting proper feasibility studies. He also noted plans to expand the sales network across the Western Province and to distribute fish products to interior areas of the country using three-wheelers.
Members of the Board of Directors and senior officials of the Fisheries Corporation were also present at the meeting.
