Fisheries ministry fails to recover MVR51 mn

The Fisheries Ministry failed to recover more than MVR51 million (US$3.3 million) owed to the state, an audit revealed.

A 2017 audit showed that more than MVR19 million, owed as rent by ice plants, had not been collected and that MVR32 million, owed between 1997 to 2001 as fees for fishing vessels and engines, had not been paid.

The fines have also increased as the ministry has taken no steps to recover this amount despite recommendations from previous audits, the report said.

Ice plants in Felivaru island in Lhaviyani Atoll, Thinadhoo island in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Guraidhoo island in Thaa Atoll, and Ihavandhoo island in Haa Dhaal Atoll had failed to pay rent.

The report also noted the ministry had failed to keep proper records of its assets as mandated by law.

Photo shows fish handling training session: @FishAgri