Agriculture Dept. signs agreement granting fishermen control of La Parguera Fishing Village

The contract recognizes the priority status of bona fide fishing organizations in managing facilities such as La Parguera Fishing Village in Lajas.

By The Star Staff

The island Department of Agriculture has signed a five-year agreement granting the La Parguera Fishermen’s Association Inc. the administration and operation of the La Parguera Fishing Village in the southwestern municipality of Lajas.

The agency said the move underscores its commitment to listening to and addressing the concerns of the organized fishing sector.

Under the lease agreement, the association will assume custody, management and use of the facilities in accordance with Regulation 7626, which governs the administration of fishing villages. The contract recognizes the priority status of bona fide fishing organizations in managing such facilities.

Agriculture Secretary Irving Rodríguez Torres described the agreement as a concrete step toward resolving a long-standing issue that has hindered fishing activity in La Parguera.

“Our duty is to listen, evaluate, and act,” he said in a statement. “The fishermen of La Parguera have been clear in their demands, and today we respond with action. This agreement restores their ability to manage their fishing village, revive economic activity, and strengthen a tradition that sustains many families.”

Rodríguez Torres emphasized that the agreement is part of a broader effort to review and address the needs of fishing villages across the island.

“We are working village by village, case by case, listening to fishermen and seeking fair, viable solutions,” he added. “Public policy is clear: these facilities should first serve those who live from fishing and understand the realities of the sea.”

The La Parguera Fishermen’s Association had publicly called for an agreement to operate the village, noting that the facility had been closed for years, limiting direct seafood sales and other economic activities tied to artisanal fishing.

Under the new arrangement, the association will manage, maintain and operate the fishing village, including the fish market and related areas, promoting the sale of locally caught fresh fish and seafood in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

The Department of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with fishermen, municipalities, and other agricultural and fishing sectors as part of the efforts of the administration of Gov. Jenniffer González Colón to boost economic development and food security, and strengthen coastal communities.