The collection of accurate data continues to be a challenge experienced and is something the Ministry of Fisheries is working to improve.
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu said data collection is something that is experienced in many sectors and her Ministry was adamant to keep on top of this.
“It’s really important to have up to date, accurate information which is something we are looking to address in order to eradicate the problems we encounter.”
Bainivalu also said information retention due to staff turnover at the Ministry had proved to be an issue.
“Over the years we’ve had officers who have left the Ministry and in the process of new staff taking over, information gets changed because of the time it takes to effect change.”
“That is something we are working on to make sure there is continuity and accurate information remains, we need to strengthen that area because from there then we can continue to have data that will show us the state of our fisheries resources.”
Bainivalu was speaking to the media after she launched the Ministry of Fisheries Strategic Development Plan 2024-2028, the Fiji National Fisheries Policy 2024-2028 and the Operational Plan 2024-2025 in Suva last night.
