A new voice for PG fishers
Published in
TIDE facilitated training sessions for 10 fishers in Punta Gorda who now boast a new Fisherman Association. The new Punta Gorda Fisherman Association’s vision is “…to give a voice to fishers of southern Toledo to ensure the sustainable management of natural resources, and of the overall aquatic ecosystem along the southern coast of Belize for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations”
The training sessions lasted over a period of 6 months with 1-2 sessions per month. Sessions included topics such as conflict resolution, organizational management, basic bookkeeping, marine laws, and how to use scientific information to make management decisions.
The trainees also held an annual general meeting as part of the training sessions. In the end, six individuals were voted in as executive members; including, Martin Reyes – Chairman, Carlos Cofius – Vice Chairman, Louis Valencio – Treasurer, Paula Williams – Assistant Treasurer, Henry Wedderburn – Secretary and Suzette Jacobs – Assistant Secretary.
TIDE says “hats off” to these committed fishers and wishes the new association well in its endeavors.