EASTSIDE-SEA MOSS FARMER WANTS MORE THAN ‘TALK;’ LEGISLATION IS NEEDED TO PROTECT THOSE WHO MAKE A LIVING FROM THE SEA
Foster Derrick, an entrepreneur who farms sea moss, is concerned that his livelihood will be threatened, as Chinese investor Yida Zhang continues work in the North East Marine Management Area.
Derrick says the development has not significantly impacted his business at this time; but, based on the development plans, it will do so in the not-too-distant future.
He says it is unfortunate that the Government has not seen it fit to enact legislation to protect sea-moss farmers and those persons who depend on the sea to make a living.
While there has been talk about this type of legislation, Derrick says that “talk” is all it has been.
His sea-moss farm is not an on-land venture, says Derrick. However, if YIDA continues to destroy the mangroves in locations where he is doing his farming, he says he will eventually be severely impacted.
Derrick says he does not want the situation to get to the point where he is, or feels, marginalized in his country of birth.
The businessman says he hopes the authorities will step in to ensure that his livelihood is protected.
Meanwhile, in order to protect his interest, and in the event of emergency, Derrick says he has farms in a number of locations.
