Environment minister to update FNC on fishing, litter and organic produce

Tighter regulation on produce labelled as organic, the economic effect of fishing bans and high levels of pollution are just some of the issues that will be tackled by the UAE parliament this week.

The Federal National Council will meet tomorrow and on Wednesday when members will question the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, over issues troubling residents in their emirates.

Dubai member Hamad Al Rahoomi wants to ask him about the country’s annual fishing ban, that was lifted last week.

For the past three years, the Government has banned fishermen from catching sheri and safi fish in March and April, their breeding season. While the embargo may have helped to replenish fish stocks, Mr Al Rahoomi said it had also affected fishermen’s livelihoods.

“They have lost a lot because of this, many have complained to me over social media,” he said. “Those two months are the high season for these types of fish, so if they cannot catch them, their catch is considered worthless.”

The ban has caused some fishermen to lose their main source of income and to struggle with living costs, he said.

“The fishermen are complaining and suffering because they have been prohibited from fishing during the peak season.

“And fishermen from neighbouring countries are catching the same fish from the same waters.”

Mr Al Rahoomi raised the issue with the minister a year ago and said he wants to propose that the fishermen are compensated.

“We are not against decisions that enhance fish availability and sustainability, but the fishermen should not suffer and lose, the ministry should at least compensate them for those two months’ losses.”

He will also propose that the ministry studies the effectiveness of the ban.

“Has it really increased the number of fish?” he said.

Ras Al Khaimah member Salem Al Shehhi will ask Mr Al Zeyoudi about rising levels of pollution in the UAE – litter in particular.

“You can see pollution across a number of areas. Some is in the form of litter, especially in popular outdoor places or green fields, that was left behind by the locals,” he said.

“This pollutes the environment and reflects an uncivilised scene. When people go for a picnic for instance and leave their waste behind, it does not decompose.

“There is also industrial and emissions waste, and pollution in general.”

He said he had received complaints from many residents regarding the issue.

“There were also cases of poor waste management. Some individuals are taking the liberty of burning rubbish themselves without following the proper methods, and that results in toxic gases and smells,” he said.

Dubai member Azza bin Suleiman will question Dr Al Zeyoudi about regulations to ensure the credibility of products labelled as organic.

“Organic farms and markets have become widespread, so I would like to know how the ministry is monitoring them,” she said.

“The organic trend could be a very positive thing, so what kind of motivation is the ministry providing for such projects by local entrepreneurs? Or is it all being imported?” she said.

The FNC is expected to pass a draft law on managing waste this week.

The fishermen should not suffer and lose, the ministry should at least compensate them for those two months HAMAD AL RAHOOMI FNC member, Dubai