“It’s going to help us a big way” – Albion fisherfolk on Govt’s $150K cash grant

In light of the announcement by President Dr Irfaan Ali that fisherfolk will each receive a $150,000 one-off cash grant, the initiative was welcomed by those residing in Berbice, Region Six (East Corentyne-Berbice). The initiative, the President said, forms part of the administration’s broader plan to cushion citizens from the rising cost of living while ensuring that traditional sectors like fishing remain viable and productive. He noted that fishermen have been among the most affected by global price fluctuations, weather challenges, and the high cost of fuel, and the grant aims to bring much-needed relief to help them sustain their operations and families. The publication spoke with several fisherfolk in Region Six who are happy with the announcement, stating that it will have an immediate impact on their lives. Chairman of Albion Landing Site Veeran Ramsarran said the current administration has been supporting the fishing industry in a big way.
“Let me thank the people of Guyana for trusting the Government to give it a second term, because if it wasn’t for the people put in there, we wouldn’t have this $150,000 for fisherfolks and on behalf of the fishermen of Albion, let me say thank him so much in keeping his commitment and promising to help us at Albion here.

One thing about the PPP Government as that they always fulfil their promises. It may take a little time, but they always deliver on their promises, and this $150,000 that he announced yesterday, I want to thank him so much and as he said, there are many more announcements where you can benefit all Guyana people as I hear yesterday… All categories of people are going to get help; it’s just,” he said.
For many fisherfolk, the funds will provide the means to repair boats and engines, purchase essential fishing gear, and offset daily expenses that have become increasingly difficult to manage. Beyond financial relief, the announcement has also restored a sense of hope and stability among fisherfolk who have struggled in recent years due to unpredictable weather patterns and reduced catches.
The initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and ensuring that no sector of the working population is left behind.
“I feel happy with it. I plan to use the money for Christmas when I get it… I’m glad we were expecting something,” one fisherman, Reginand Carpen of Chesney, said.

Another, Devendra Mckoon, said the grant would come in useful for fisherfolk.
“I am proud of what I heard yesterday. It would be a lot of help. We can use it to buy something to do our work… I’m glad the announcement came. I didn’t expect this. I didn’t expect it till next year.” Meanwhile, fisherwoman Sherlyn Bhagwandin of Alness Village also offered her comments.
“At least we could take it and buy something to go and do our trade. I am happy about it,” she said. Kumar Ibrahim, who operates out of the Albion Landing Site, in explaining that he heard the announcement on Wednesday, expressed his gratitude. “We are thankful for it. It is going to be a big help for the fishermen. I am going to use it for the boat; it is going to help us do something… It is going to help us a little bit for Christmas because the fish aren’t around too much right now and the sharks are biting our seine,” he added. Meanwhile, Ramsarran said on a personal note the grant would be of help in many ways. One is to purchase items they use on a daily basis. “Like rope, lead, cord… those kinds of things. Plus it is going to help with the cost of living, so it is going to help a big way,” he added.