Jamaica fisheries sector to get new sanctuaries, ticketing system and beach upgrades

Jamaica’s fisheries sector is to receive a package of upgrades in the 2026/2027 fiscal year, with Government outlining plans for new marine protected areas, stronger enforcement, improved fishing beaches and added support for coastal communities.

Two new fish sanctuaries are expected to be declared this year at Allegata Pond and Salt Marsh. Together, the sites are to protect 12,250 hectares of marine ecosystem.

Support is also being directed to oyster production. More than $1 million has been set aside to rebuild oyster farms and restore the oyster collection system used by farmers, a move expected to assist 48 oyster farmers.

Changes are also coming to how some fisheries breaches are handled. Under a new arrangement involving Tax Administration Jamaica and the Ministry of National Security, selected fisheries offences will become ticketable violations. The system is expected to begin in September 2026 and will allow offenders to pay fines directly, instead of having every matter go through the courts.

The offences identified include failing to report a lost fishing vessel, failing to properly store fishing gear, failing to comply with a lawful inquiry, and leaving or depositing prohibited items. Government says the aim is not to excuse breaches of the law, but to create a quicker process for less serious offences. Persons who ignore tickets will still be required to attend court.

Work is also continuing on fishing beach infrastructure. Last year, about $88 million was spent on retrofitting facilities at fishing beaches including Black River, Portland Cottage, Padi and Salem. This year, major works are planned for White House Fishing Beach, where about $34 million has been identified and work has already started.

Additional services are also planned for fishers. Two new fisheries offices are to be established in Westmoreland and Hanover, while the boat and engine programme will continue to provide 20 boats and 20 engines each year. Two more fuel depots are also to be set up, one in Trelawny and another in Portland, to reduce the distance fishers must travel to purchase fuel.