These devices remain afloat in open water, attracting fish to swim around them. FADs, which have existed for decades, are being modernised by the Department, making fish more accessible to fishermen. Deputy Chief Fisheries Officer, Thomas Nelson, lauds the initiative by the government to make fishermen’s jobs easier and lives safer.

 “This activity is really the demonstration of the vision of the Fisheries Department. [It establishes] strong partnerships across stakeholders and increases fishers’ profitability,” Nelson says. Nelson highlights the sector-wise cooperation of stakeholders in bringing this initiative to fruition. “The FAD was constructed by the fisherfolk in Soufriere, the technical support was given by the extension officers from the Department and we also collaborated with some other boaters from Soufriere to be able to deploy the FAD successfully. It’s been a successful mission thus far.”

 Launched in Soufriere, MP for the district, Hon. Emma Hippolyte says this endeavour will benefit the livelihoods of fishermen in her constituency. “In looking at the high price of fuel, the cabinet took a decision to launch ten FADs across Saint Lucia. I want to thank the fishers of Soufriere for working hard in launching the FADs.”

 The Floating Aggregating Devices are known for attracting tuna, dolphin, and billfish.