There is untapped potential in the maritime industry despite the many challenges stakeholders face.
Minister of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy Kirk Humphrey expressed this opinion during his remarks at a special church service held at the St James Parish Church, Holetown, St James, to mark the commencement of the new fishing season.
Humphrey said the waters did not have the abundance of fish and the coral reef was not as healthy as it was in the past.
He said global warming continued to have a major impact on fisheries, which could lead to a further reduction of fish, coral reef loss, more Sargassum seaweed and more frequent and intense hurricanes.
The minister said it was therefore important that we adapt to the new conditions.
Humphrey also said there were opportunities at our doorstep to do something innovative and sustainable.
Some of the other activities to usher in the fishing season include a cinema night and the reopening of the Payne’s Bay Fish Market. (SB)
