80 pillars offering light and water service are being installed
The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture is undergoing infrastructure investment in fishing ports to install various pillars that will offer a light and water service, which will make life easier for fishermen and provide more accessibility. This investment of about half a million euros was announced by the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said.
The Department of Fisheries is committed to remaining a shoulder for Maltese and Gozitan fishermen, which is why after consultation with fishermen in various localities, by the end of the year there will be accessibility to 80 pillars to alleviate the operation of their work. This is part of the ongoing budget measure which further confirms this government’s commitment to the fisheries sector.
Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said said, “Such investments have a direct impact on the fishing industry. In addition to improving port infrastructure, fishermen will be given assistance to logistically enable them to carry out their work in a more competitive and sustainable manner. ” She also said: “When work is simplified, we are offering a better quality of life to our fishermen.”
These electricity and water pillars are spread in various ports around Malta including: Marsaxlokk, Marsaskala, Birżebbuġa, Żurrieq, Għadira, San Pawl il-Baħar, San Ġiljan, l-Msida, Marsamxett and the Marsa. It is estimated that the works will be completed by the end of the year.
Service pillars are important for the fisherman’s work both before fishing, while unloading fish, and in the months when maintenance is needed on fishing vessels. The water supply also ensures higher levels of sanitation in the operation and the products that finally reach the Maltese consumer.
The pillars can be used primarily by Department-registered fishermen who include 389 full-time registered fishermen, 445 part-time registered fishermen and 1,890 who are recreational fishermen. Those who are registered can use them using an electronic chip provided by the Department itself.
