The Ministry of Home Affairs proudly joins the global community in celebrating World Fisheries Day, which will be recognized tomorrow, November 21, 2024. This annual observance highlights the vital role of fisheries in sustaining food security, livelihoods, and marine ecosystems.

Bermuda's fishing industry is a cornerstone of the island's economy and culture. It supports local employment, provides fresh seafood, and fosters a deep cultural connection to the sea.

The Hon. Walter H. Roban, JP, MP, Deputy Premier and Minister of Home Affairs, acknowledged Bermuda's fishermen's hard work and resilience and reaffirmed the Government's commitment to ensuring the industry's sustainability.

"On World Fisheries Day, we highlight the importance of sustainable fishing practices and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Bermuda's commercial fishermen whose efforts provide for our community," said Minister Roban. "Through partnerships like the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme, we will ensure that our fisheries remain viable, sustainable, and prosperous for generations."

The Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme (BOPP), a partnership between the Government of Bermuda, the Waitt Institute, The Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, and Bermuda's community stakeholders, is spearheading initiatives to safeguard the island's marine resources. Central to this effort is developing a Marine Spatial Plan to balance economic activity, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation.

The Marine Spatial Plan will identify critical areas for sustainable fishing, tourism, renewable energy, and marine protection while ensuring that Bermuda's ocean economy remains vibrant. With the goal of 20% of Bermuda's exclusive economic zone being designated as marine protected areas (MPAs), the programme will support biodiversity and conservation while allowing the sustainable use of Bermuda's ocean resources.

"The Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme demonstrates our forward-thinking approach to managing our ocean resources responsibly. It ensures our fisheries remain a critical part of our island economy while prioritizing marine conservation, enforcement, sound marine management practices and resilience to fight against climate change," Minister Roban added.

Other advancements in Bermuda's fisheries management include strong partnerships, training, enhanced technology, and strengthening marine enforcement. As the Speech from the Throne outlines, the Government will enhance marine enforcement through the Marine Resources Enforcement Plan, which will integrate ongoing efforts with key international partners, including the UK's Bermuda Blue Belt Ocean Shield Programme, the US Coast Guard and others. These collaborations strengthen Bermuda's ability to protect all our EEZ and ensure a coordinated and modern approach to marine enforcement.  

"As we celebrate World Fisheries Day, I encourage all Bermudians to reflect on our responsibility to protect our oceans and support our fishing community. Understanding that many have helped positively shape Bermuda’s fishing industry, the Ministry intends to recognize individual contributors who have played a pivotal role. By working together, we can preserve our marine environment while fostering economic prosperity," said Minister Roban.  

The Ministry encourages the public to support Bermuda's fishermen by choosing locally caught seafood, learning about sustainable fishing practices, and engaging in marine conservation efforts.

For more information on the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme and the Marine Spatial Plan, visit bermudaoceanprosperity.org. For information on fisheries, visit gov.bm/department/environment-and-natural-resources.