Saint Lucia: Govt increases fuel rebates for fishermen up to $2.50

The fishermen across the island of Saint Lucia have started receiving increased fuel rebates as promised by Prime Minister Philip J Pierre during the 2023-2024 budget address. This showcases a tangible commitment by the Government to extend more support to the fisheries sector.

According to the information, the qualified fishing vessel owners with valid licenses and affiliations with registered fisher-folk cooperative societies will be getting a per gallon rebate of $2.50 while the earlier price of $1.50.

This development aligns with the Government’ aim to alleviate financial strain and assure the continued viability of fishers who work at a smaller scale.

Prime Minister Pierre said that he is leading an administration which continues to put people first and fishermen across Saint Lucia have already started receiving increased fuel rebates.

He also noted that the maximum rebate per vessel is set at 6000 gallons per quarter and this round of rebate will cover payments for the quarter from July to September 2023.

PM Philip J Pierre said that this government’s implementation of an increased fuel rebate aims to support the fishers and the sector as a whole. Notably, the fuel costs represent a major operational expense for fishing vessels and the rebate will offer significant relief by imbursing vessel owners for their fuel expenses. Moreover, to offset the high cost of fuel, the Government of Saint Lucia is presently increasing the number of FADs – Fishing Aggravating Devices.

While announcing the development, the Minister of Agriculture, Alfred Prospere said that the increased rebates as effective from August 2, 2023 and expanding FADS deployment are major government initiatives.

“These FADS works to reduce fuel costs for fisherfolk by offering an efficient alternative to deep-sea fishing. With the installation of ten additional FADS under the World Bank project, we anticipate substantial reductions in fuel consumption, benefiting our fishing communities,” he outlined.