By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

The Prime Minister has urged lodges, resorts and other industry operators to invest in renewable energy and sustainable equipment to help protect the $150m flats fishing industry against climate change.

Speaking at the Bahamas Flats Fishing Guide Homecoming Conclave on Friday, Philip Davis KC said: “As an integral part of our tourism landscape, flats fishing is the lifeblood of many Family Island communities.

“Of course, it is also a significant generator of revenue at the national level, contributing over $150m annually to our GDP. And we know there is even more room for growth.” But Mr Davis said rising sea temperatures have reduced fishing stocks, which could have a detrimental effect on an industry that helps to sustain many Family Island communities.

“This is a sector of immense cultural and economic value, and it has long been a shimmering feature of Bahamian life,” said Mr Davis. “But like so many other facets of our society, it is under threat from a climate emergency we had no hand in bringing about.

“Rising ocean temperatures are impacting fish stock productivity – less fish are surviving until adulthood. When productivity levels fall, it hurts the wider ecosystem. These worrying patterns, observed all over the world, are only amplified by other climate extremes, like the worsening storms that strike our region.”

Mr Davis encouraged hotels and fishermen to help mitigate the effects of climate change by embracing renewable energy and investing in sustainable fishing equipment. “Hotels and lodges can solarise,” he added.

“Fishers can invest in sustainable equipment. And visitors can conserve resources over the course of their stay. We can protect our resources and our livelihoods. Commercial and environmental interests don’t have to compete. They can exist in harmony.”

Mr Davis said concessions and exemptions have been implemented to help stakeholders grow the flats fishing industry. “Facilitating world class fly-fishing tournaments and initiating strategic marketing initiatives are just two of the ways this government has supported the expansion of the flats fishing industry,” he added.

“Concessions and exemptions have also been put in place, as we know that running a business is a big financial undertaking. We understand that is in our national best interest to support the flats fishing industry in whatever ways we can. And we can do even more to help you to build this industry up to what we all know it can be.”

Mr Davis said the operational budget for local government has been increased by more than 10 percent, and while the industry is driven by foreign visitors it is “essential” that its economic benefits are reaped by Bahamians.

“These are Bahamian assets that should be controlled by, and benefit, Bahamians and our economy,” said Mr Davis.“While we appreciate that the industry is driven by foreign visitors and brokers from around the world who can influence where anglers go, it is essential to discuss how we can ensure that the economic benefits remain for Bahamians.

“Already, we have increased the operation budget for local government by over 10 percent. With these additional funds, district councils are in a better position to empower entrepreneurs within and adjacent to the industry. Through these measures, and through the efforts of so many here today, flats fishing in The Bahamas has grown from a small niche into a flourishing sphere.”