Dominica has distributed eight new FRP fishing boats in Scotts Head, bringing the total to 54 vessels as part of efforts to modernise fisheries.
Dominica: The Government of Dominica continues in its greater efforts to strengthening the fisheries sector and restoring the livelihoods of the fisherfolk in the country as it handed eight, Fibreglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) fishing boats valued at 400,000 dollars to local beneficiaries in the Scottshead area.
This initiative is an ongoing investment strategy by the Government, with a total of 54 vessels distributed to date. The eight vessels were handed over by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy during an official handing-over ceremony on Thursday, 2nd July 2026.
Present at the ceremony were Jullan Defoe, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy; Wynonna Joseph, the Acting Chief Fisheries Officer; Rachel Andrew who represented Parliamentary Representative, Denise Charles-Pemberton; the selected fisherfolks and members of the public.
During his address, Minister of State Jullan Dofoe explained that the 8 boats are the last set of boats to be issued and that both the selection and distribution process for the high-value vessels were completely transparent.
All of these individuals who have received the boats, and today is the last group, their claim of the boat being damaged or lost was assessed confirmed and verified, stated the Minister of State.
He went on to assert, “I will be the first to tell you on this platform that zero political affiliation paid any part in assessing beneficiaries.”
Chief Fisheries Officer Wynonna Joseph also addressed the audience, explaining the significance of this initiative in the lives of the fishers. She highlighted a few areas and emphasised that the investment is part of the Government’s ongoing plan to modernise the fisheries sector across the island.
These vessels will provide the beneficiaries with improved opportunities to increase productivity, operate more efficiently, and enhance safety while at sea. They also represent another step in the government's ongoing effort to modernizing the fishery sector and improving the livelihoods of fishing communities throughout Dominica, stated Chief Officer Wynonna Joseph.
The Fisheries Officer noted that the boats are more than just an equipment, but an asset that will help shape the beneficiaries’ future, expand the community.
Those boats should not be viewed simply as an equipment, but as a valuable asset that can help build stronger fishing enterprises, create opportunities for your family, and contribute to the continued growth of our community, added the Officer.
The Fishermen were encouraging them to take good care of the vessels and use them responsibly to create sustainable livelihoods for themselves.