By Sue-Ann Wayow
FISHERMEN from the central fishing facilities were the first to be a part of a specialised training session in survival and emergency response measures this week.
The training organised by the Ministry of National Security along with Member of Parliament for Couva North Ravi Ratiram took place on Monday at the Carli Bay fishing site.
The event was attended by the members of the Claxton Bay, Orange Valley, Brickfield and Carli Bay Fishing Associations and was the product of years of discussions amongst the various stakeholders, Ratiram said.
A coast guard base has since been set up at King’s Wharf San Fernando and training sessions were proposed.
In a press release by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), Inspector Harold Taitt, of the Coastal and Riverine Patrol Unit, said the goal was to partner with the fishermen to ensure their safety and security while plying their trade.
The fishermen were exposed to training as it related to safety in and out of the boats, the proper use of the life jackets and its importance in saving lives and the use of flares to assist with them being located at sea.
On Monday, Ratiram said, “Today’s training session carried out by the recently established TTPS Riverine Unit was one such initiative that I hope marks the beginning of a strong and mutually beneficial partnership between the fisherfolk of Central Trinidad and the various arms of our National Security infrastructure.”
President of the Carli Bay Fishing Association Imtiaz Khan led in the organisation and hosting of the event. Local government councillor Allan ‘Taxi’ Seepersad assisted in cleaning and preparing the Carli Bay Fishing Facility, its surroundings and the roadway leading to the facility.
