Remove Abandoned Vessels by October 28 or Face Cleanup Costs, Fisheries Division Warns

The Fisheries Division has issued a final warning to owners of abandoned or derelict fishing vessels, vehicles and fishing gear at the Point Wharf Fisheries Complex: remove the items by October 28, 2026, or face removal at their own expense.

The deadline forms part of a major cleanup of the facility, with assistance from the National Solid Waste Management Authority, the Central Board of Health and the Development Control Authority.

In a notice dated October 13 and signed by Chief Fisheries Officer Ian Horsford, the division said owners have received numerous letters and posted notices dating back to 2020.

“Persons are reminded of the numerous letters written and notices posted as far back as 2020,” the notice stated, reiterating the division’s intention to remove the abandoned property at owners’ expense.

The division cited the Litter Control and Prevention Act, No. 3 of 2019, which includes abandoned or derelict vehicles, boats and fish pots within its definition of waste.

According to the notice, the legislation allows a local authority to require the removal of a derelict vehicle from a public place within 24 hours of notice where its presence causes or contributes to environmental defacement.

The division also pointed to provisions of the Physical Planning Act, No. 6 of 2003, under which the Town and Country Planner can issue an enforcement notice or draft an amenity order for submission to the relevant authority to facilitate removal or disposal.

Owners seeking clarification about the cleanup can contact the Fisheries Division at 462-1372 or 462-6106, or visit its offices at the Point Wharf Fisheries Complex.

“Let us keep our surroundings clean and protect our health and the environment,” the notice urged.