Some have already given their seal of approval while others withhold their blessing citing various concerns. The most controversial issue appears to be the location of the facility. Veteran sea captain and former director of fisheries – Mr. Arthur Anslyn – stated that Gallows Bay is the best setting for the proposed complex. According to Anslyn fishermen will benefit by being able to market their products easier as worries about refrigeration or selling their day’s catch would be addressed.
Some question whether enough fish is landed to productively utilize such a facility. The fisheries in the market never appeared to be a bustling place of business. Others are puzzled as to how such a facility will look alongside the proposed redevelopment of the pier area to house the Gucci stores of the Namdar Brothers. Environmentalists and conservationists are skeptical of the physical impact of the complex on Gallows Bay and its environs. Where will the waste from the complex go? What will happen to the beach and the wild life. Still others are concerned that we are running out of coastal areas where locals can just go relax and fish. Perhaps most alarming is that many fishermen do not seem enthusiastic about the coming upgrade even though they should benefit the most.
The NIA believes that having a centrally located complex is advantageous. Premier Parry has said that the concentration of the population is in Charlestown and that traffic means that fishermen are more likely to get their fish sold. He also stated that locations outside of town add transportation and storage costs to the price of fish. Lower cost of fish would be welcome by consumers and many look forward to not having to scout for a pickup selling fish in town or keep their ears peeled for the sound of a conch shell passing through the neighbourhood. It would be great to have a place to go to find fresh fish and fish product daily.
The same words can mean different things to different people. Supporters of the proposed fisheries complex may probably smile and say, ”Go fish!” if asked about it. Detractors asked the same question might just suck their teeth and snarl, Go fish!