Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Franklin Witter is urging fisherfolk to grasp the opportunities available for insurance coverage through the various service providers.

The call comes in the wake of a recent shark attack on a fisherman resulting in the loss of his hand.

Mr. Witter says the Ministry has collaborated with Sagicor and Advantage General Insurance Company for the implementation of insurance packages for fisherfolk that will protect life, health and property, including fishing vessels.

He also outlined other initiatives being implemented by the Ministry to improve occupational health and safety.

These include training in safety at sea by the Caribbean Maritime University for 35 young fishers and safe scuba diving practices for 12 young fishers by the University of the West Indies.

Mr. Witter was speaking at the International Fisherman’s Day Symposium held at Wembley Centre of Excellence in Clarendon on Wednesday (June 27), under the theme ‘Small in Size, Big in Value’.