VICTIMS of the recent cyclone Pam disaster in the Temotu province are calling on the government to extend the harvesting period for sea cucumber (beche-de-mer).
This comes after the harvesting period will close soon.
A chief in Duff islands of Temotu Noel Hatu said, since their islands have been damaged by the natural disaster they called to the government to extend the harvesting period of sea cucumber.
He said, they depend on sea resources as their main source of income compared to people living in main land.
“We depend on sea cucumber because you we can store it for a long period of time and you can earn some good money out of it compared to other sea resources.
“Not only that but we have been affected by the recent disaster.
“Therefore we want the government to extend the harvesting period so that we can easily sustain our families when the disaster relief comes to an end any time.”
He said, currently most of the people on the island depend on the relief supplies from the government and non government organisation.
“But these supplies won’t last long. So I appeal to the government to listen to our call.”
Meanwhile the Ministry of Fisheries has announced a one month extension early this week.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
