Ministry of Blue Economy to Address Illegal Fishing

Andre Perez

Minister Perez says that the issuing of licensing is not to be confused with the larger issue of illegal fishing.  There have been multiple reports and documentation from the South of encroachment into our territorial waters by illegal fishers from neighbouring countries. It has resulted in the depletion of Belize’s fish stock in the south, which Minister Perez says he has witnessed.  This week The Belize Progressive Party issued a release condemning S.I. fifty-seven, saying that it will only worsen an already bad situation.  But the Minister of Blue Economy says that enforcement is another mandate of his ministry.

Andre Perez, Minister of Blue Economy

“We must engage in enforcement, working together as well with our different government departments such as the coast guard and the police department. So it is very much active. Under the Blue Economy, there exists vast opportunities if we do it the right way, the right proposals with transparency and responsibility. We are already seeking those funds which will be translated into enforcement – getting more boats, getting more personnel, getting more machinery to go out there. We know the places where the illegal fishing is occurring.”