Rough seas batter Matelot fishing vessels

Rondon, who is the councillor for the area, told Newsday that some four boats from Matelot as well as others from various districts along the north-east coast were destroyed by the rough seas, which began pounding the shoreline at about noon yesterday.

“I am going up there very early to assess the damage,” he said.

A concerned Rondon said the fishermen were distraught over the situation.

“That is their form of livelihood and they are now unable to work. So, my appeal is for assistance of any kind for the men, foodstuff, cash to help the families, anything. It is a community that depends on fishing,” he said, adding that people can contact the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation if they wished to provide assistance.

A statement from Rondon’s office at the corporation had earlier confirmed the development.

It said rough seas on the north coast has caused “major damage and destruction to many boats starting from Matelot and extending to other areas along the coast.” Matelot fishermen experienced a similar fate several years ago when extremely bad weather damaged boats and the fishing depot.

And while several of the fishermen have since been compensated, others are still awaiting assistance, Rondon said.

“Some of the fishermen got compensation but there were others who are still waiting for compensation. They are still hoping that something could be done,” he said.