Berbice River fishermen discuss bridge impact with Agriculture Minister

Georgetown, GINA, October 31, 2007.

Efforts are being made to address issues affecting fishermen operating in the Berbice River due to the construction of the bridge from De Edward Village, Region Five to Crab Island in Region Six.
During a recent meeting with Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud and Secretary of the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BBCI) Winston Brassington, the fisherfolks expressed concern about their activities in light of the bridge’s construction.
Minister Persaud was told that there are approximately 30 fishing pens located within the Berbice River. Those located directly in the bridge’s site are required to relocate immediately.
            Prior to construction of the bridge, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was conducted during which a series of consultations were held with persons on both sides of the river who were likely to be affected by the bridge’s construction.
As a result of the study, the Environmental Permit indicated that subject to safe practices which will not impact on the bridge’s safety, fishermen will be allowed to fish and moor their vessels within the two-mile safety zone.
However, the issue of fishing pens that are structured in the river was not raised by residents at any of the consultations and therefore the matter was not recognised in the EIA and as such, issues that were not mentioned previously are now being recognised.
Relocation of pens in the immediate vicinity of the bridge is one of the issues being addressed while appropriate procedures are to be worked out for those that are operating in the one-mile zone. Additionally, consideration is being given to fishermen who need to access the Berbice River via the bridge area.
Brassington suggested that a working group be established between the fishermen with support from the Ministry of Agriculture and the BBCI to work out arrangements governing the movement of fishermen and ensuring safe operation of the bridge.
Minister Persaud pointed out that lack of consultation often results in difficulties being raised when a project or policy is already being implemented.
            In December 2005, the Government of Guyana passed the Berbice Bridge Act. In July 2006, Government sealed the Concession Agreement with BBCI for the Berbice Bridge project. This toll-bridge will be operated under a Build, Own and Transfer (BOT) arrangement for 21 years after which it will be transferred to Government.

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