Delta Petroleum renews its commitment to the 22nd Annual Fisherman's Day in the BVI. The Fisherman's Day is organized by the Conservation and Fisheries Department of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour in the BVI. According to information from the Ministry, the event will be staged at Long Bay Beach, Beef Island on Friday, July 1, 2011.The Ministry pointed out that the objectives of the Fisherman's Day is to continue to promote, develop, encourage and enhance a higher standard of a comprehensive network among active fishermen's associations, fishermen's cooperatives and other vital stakeholders. To help maintain and safeguard the country's fishery from illegal fishing activities and combating the presence of the invasive species, such as the lionfish, public awareness and education has become its focus. The ministry listed its final objective as being able to promote the country's fishery in the best interest of the Virgin Islands and its citizens at a sustainable level.
The Regional General Manger commended the group on the importance of such events and further pointed out that fishermen do not get their deserved recognition but he emphasized that they are responsible for making available to the population, a vital source of protein all year round.
The RGM also noted that fishermen contribute to food security, improved nutrition and work to eradicate poverty. This year's event is being hosted under the theme, "Fishers: Acknowledging the past, revitalizing the importance of our Fishery".
The RGM stressed that fishermen are very 'brave and hardworking' since he noted that they work 24 hours a day, for most of the year in an effort of master their trade in extremely harsh conditions.
The Delta Petroleum RGM disclosed that next weekend, he would be in Nevis for the weekend attending a similar event known as WinFes. He pointed out that like the Fisherman's Day activities in the BVI, the WinFes event also includes drag racing, a family fun day, Calypso show, Jouvert among other activities.
While Delta Petroleum is supporting the Fisherman's Day activities in Tortola, it will also assist with WinFes activities in Nevis, which allows the company to demonstrate its continued commitment to activities within the region. "I want to reaffirm that we are a very proud sponsor of Fisherman's Day activities and would continue to be so," says Sylvester, Regional General Manager.
Mr. Sylvester affirmed his company's commitment to providing support for the event and said that while Delta Petroleum would have loved to provide more assistance, there has been a great demand for support, but yet limited resources thus far. However, he wishes both events well by adding that his company remains pleased and impressed with their achievements and strides that the each event continues to garner.
"It is my hope that other corporate citizens see the importance of this industry and will invest as well because it is an important thread in our economy in the Caribbean region", says Sylvester.