Despite the low turnout, fisher-folk from Manchioneal and surrounding areas in Portland recently completed a workshop on fish handling and storage staged by the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries Department in collaboration with the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).
“Unfortunately, the expected turnout is disappointing. This is where fisher-folk are able to learn about the various safety measures and regulations in handling, cleaning, and storing fish for human consumption. There are various health risks, which have to be observed when handling fish as one can easily transmit germs or bacteria to the product. JSIF has partnered with the Fisheries Department and is undertaking the expenses as it relates to identification cards and food handlers’ permits,” said James Pierson, Enterprise Development Officer for agriculture at the JSIF.
A presentation was also held to discuss the importance of handling fish, how to store fish against spoilage and the need to ensure that potable water was available for handling and cleaning fish. Potable water is safe drinking water that is pumped from the source to our taps. This was staged by the Public Health Department. The participants also completed a written test to examine their understanding of the presentation and proper procedures for raw fish handling to prevent food borne illness and other issues. Fisher-folk will also be additionally trained in basic seamanship and safety at sea by the maritime institute.
“Widespread food-borne illness”
According to reports out of the Jamaica Gleaner, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries donated 2,000 life vests, 2,000 marine flares, and 400 coolers. In addition, under the ongoing joint initiative, fishermen will be trained in basic seamanship and safety at sea by the maritime institute.
“JSIF has committed to undertaking the cost of processing identification cards. Persons must be trained in handling food. Food-borne illness is widespread these days, and, therefore, we are trying to prevent that from taking place. The training also teaches fishermen, who ply their trade on the cays, how to store their fish properly while at sea. JSIF, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, is undertaking this project to the tune of approximately $18 million, and this training is being done throughout all the fishing”, Pierson added.
