UDC to focus on fishermen

THE URBAN Development Corporation (UDC) has earmarked 10 acres of land at Half Moon Bay, Hellshire in St. Catherine for use by the Half Moon Bay Fishermen's Co-operative Society, in an effort to resolve the long-standing issue of security of tenure for the fishermen.

Following a meeting between UDC officials and representatives of the Co-op last week, it was agreed that the land would be transferred to the Commissioner of Lands to be held in trust for the Co-op.

The UDC had proposed and discussed with fishermen a development plan for the bay, which included housing with 94 studio units at Hellshire Park primarily for members of the Fisherman's Co-op; a fishing complex to be operated by the Co-op to facilitate the berthing of boats, securing of equipment and conducting of business; and a recreational beach area for fish vending.

The fishermen, however, opted for use of the land identified for their use in the 1970s. This is the land the UDC will now transfer to the Commissioner of Lands. The houses, which were to be sold to fishermen at concessionary rates, will now be sold on the open market, and the fishing complex will not be constructed.

The Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries Division will continue to pursue the operation and development options with the Co-op.

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