Fishermen and shrimp businessmen in Campeche blocked 20th Street in the town of Lerma, near the Port Captaincy, in protest against the Navy Secretariat (Semar). The protest was in response to Semar’s demand for them to update their Balance Plan for shrimp boats, which the protesters claim should already be in Semar’s possession.
Background
According to Francisco Elías Herrera Romellón, president of the National Chamber of Fishing and Aquaculture (Conapesca) in Campeche, the Balance Plan for high-seas vessels costs 18,000 pesos per unit. With 87 active vessels in the state, the total investment exceeds 100,000 pesos.
A recent meeting between Conapesca, Semar, and other authorities revealed that the documentation was urgently needed. However, the attendees argued that these documents were already with Semar, making the request redundant.
Issues in Campeche
The protest highlights broader issues in Campeche, including complaints about lack of surveillance, inoperability, depredation, and other maritime crimes in the Gulf of Mexico. These issues persist before, during, and after the deep-sea fishing seasons. Businessmen have expressed frustration, stating that they are often redirected between the Navy and Conapesca without resolution.
Herrera Romellón criticized the federal government for closing doors and denying support, while the Government of Campeche has been more supportive in resolving some issues. This has made it challenging to follow up on complaints from shrimp businessmen and deep-sea fishermen.
Government Response
The protesters were later summoned to the Government Palace, where they were asked to lift the blockade as it was affecting local residents. They agreed to clear the road and reached an agreement with the state government to seek liaison with the federal government for a prompt solution to the document dispute.
Source: La Jornada Maya
