 Prime Minister Honourable Philip G. Pierre leads a government that continues to put people first. Fishermen across St Lucia have started receiving their increased fuel rebate as pledged in the 2023-2024 budget address, signalling a tangible commitment by the Government of St Lucia to support fisheries and promote sustainable livelihoods for fisherfolk, qualified fishing vessel owners with valid licenses and affiliations with registered Fisherfolk Cooperative Societies will now receive a $2.50 per gallon rebate, up from $1.50. The maximum rebate per vessel is set at 6,000 gallons quarterly. This round of rebate covers payments for the quarter from July to September 2023. The Government's implementation of an enhanced fuel rebate seeks to alleviate the financial strain stemming from the global surge in fuel prices and ensures the continued viability of small-scale fishers. Given that fuel costs represent a significant operational expense for fishing vessels, the rebate offers vital relief by reimbursing vessel owners for their fuel expenditures to further offset the high cost of fuel. The Government is currently increasing the number of fishing, aggravating devices, otherwise known as FADS. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development Honourable Alfred Prosper says the increased rebates effective August 2, 2023 and expanding fishing, aggravating devices deployment are key Government initiatives. These FADS reduce fuel costs for fisherfolk by offering an efficient alternative to deep-sea fishing. With the installation of 10 additional FADS under the World Bank project, we expect significant reductions in fuel consumption, benefiting our fishing communities. The Government of St. Lucia maintains its commitment to fostering fishing as a financially rewarding and sustainable livelihood.