The BCMM Community Fishing Forum has expressed strong opposition to the decision made by the Transnet Ports Authority (TNPA) to prohibit fishermen from accessing the Buffalo riverbanks.
Members of the forum met TNPA officials on June 14 for a site visit, during which it was revealed that fishermen are not permitted to fish along the riverbanks adjacent to Sea Spirit and EL Rowing Club.
The ban has been implemented, according to TNPA officials, to combat theft and vandalism and make room for future development plans.
BCMM Fisherman’s Forum chair Lincoln Daniels, stated that earlier this year, the forum had a meeting with TNPA, where promises were made to allocate a designated fishing area within the harbour for the fishermen’s use, as well as for selling their catch. The forum contends that the recent ban on fishing along the Buffalo Riverbanks reneges on this commitment.
Daniels said: “The Buffalo River has always been open for fishing; it never belonged to Transnet. Suddenly, they claim that the area where the steps are located on the riverbanks belongs to Transnet and will be closed off with a fence. Since 2003, it was understood that the area from the Old Bridge up to Sea Spirit was not part of the port and could be freely used by fishermen.
“Local fishermen are facing significant challenges in accessing sustainable fishing grounds.
“Port control has already restricted access to reliable fishing spots inside the harbour, including the western break wall. Now, they are further limiting access to the Buffalo River.
“Fishermen are struggling to catch fish to provide for their families. The harbour, break wall, and Buffalo River have served as sustainable fishing grounds due to the abundance of fish available in these areas. These spots are safer and easily accessible for elderly and disabled fishermen.”
Forum secretary Neil Arends said fishermen had been fighting for access to safe and sustainable fishing grounds for more than two decades.
Arends highlighted that fishermen had been pushed farther offshore towards areas near West Bank, which exposed them to jagged rocks and criminal elements.
Arends said: “The break wall is the ideal fishing spot as it offers favourable conditions and a variety of species.
“However, fishermen have been banned from this area since 2003.”
The forum said supporting sustainable local fishing could only be achieved if fishermen were allowed to fish in the river, were provided a designated fishing area within the harbour, and were permitted to use the break wall.
Arends said: “We would welcome a TNPA access permit for the harbour that would restrict entry and exit to those possessing the permit. This would enhance our safety.
“If TNPA is concerned about safety at the break wall, they can implement buoys and other measures.”
According to Daniels, TNPA suggested that fishermen might be relocated to a recreational area near Latimer’s Landing. However, no deadline was provided and the fishermen believe this solution will not be feasible due to space limitations.
TNPA officials acknowledged that the port development plans would affect commercial and recreational facilities and assured stakeholders, including fishermen, that their concerns were being considered.
TNPA stated: “Access to the port is controlled for safety and security reasons. Although it is clear that fishermen desire access to the western breakwater, the safety of fishermen and all other port users accessing and using the breakwater, as well as the access routes, remains a security risk and a concern for the port, especially given the recent surge in criminal activities.
“TNPA is responsible for managing the risk of crime and implementing measures while regulating access.”
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