What do you think about the proposal by a number of provinces to set up a support fund for fishermen?
It is necessary and worthwhile to support fishermen. About 13 years ago, the fishery humanitarian fund was founded and has been in existence until now. At the time it was established, former Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet sent a letter of congratulations to those behind the fund and called on individuals and organisations to contribute towards the fund.
Similarly, a support fund for poor children in coastal areas was founded one year after Chanchu Typhoon afflicted hundreds of families in 2006. President Nguyen Minh Triet also sent a letter in support of the fund.
Do you think it is right that a new fund be set up to support fishermen whose job is precarious at the best of times?
Deep sea fishermen face a lot of risks, particularly in the Hoang Sa (Paracel) region.
Once founded, the fund will not only support these fishermen but also give them an incentive to fish in dangerous waters. We must fish throughout our territorial waters. This affirms our sovereignty. First and foremost, it is the State’s responsibility to support its fishermen. But under the current conditions, the social community must also support its fishermen.
Should the fund be nationwide?
There are currently many funds targeted at fishermen. Therefore, it is essential to unite these funds to avoid overlap. There is also a need to scrap funds of no significance. The fund should meet the particular needs of each province.
Where should the money for the fund come from?
It should come in part from enterprises involved in the fisheries sector. Enterprises exporting processed aquatic products, for example, contributed VND13 billion on one night when the appeal for the poor children in coastal areas was launched.
The fisheries industry is more difficult than others. Fishermen have also contributed a lot to the country, but they are at a disadvantage compared to others. It is also possible to call on individuals and organisations outside the fisheries sector in and out of the country to contribute towards the fund. I think everyone wants to support the country’s fishermen.
Should we call on fishermen to contribute towards the fund?
In my opinion, fishermen in key provinces should contribute towards the fund. I myself am also willing to contribute towards it.
How exactly will the fund work?
This issue will be discussed once the fund is set up. However, every dong that is spent must be for the good of the fishermen because it is designed for them. It is not easy to run a fund. That is why it should not be put under any administrative office.
VietNamNet/Viet Nam News