The Senate yesterday passed the Conch Export Levy Act 2009, which will facilitate the imposition of a levy on the exportation of conch.

When this measure takes effect, the proceeds from the levy will be used to establish the Fisheries Management and Development Fund.

Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service Don Wehby said yesterday that the dedicated fund would finance the sustainable management and development of the fisheries sector.

Wehby was piloting the bill in the Senate.

The Veterinary Services Division in the Ministry of Agriculture has been designated to collect the levy.

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Exporters of conch will be required to pay US$0.75 (approximately J$66) per pound of conch in the first year. In year two, the levy will be increased to US$1.00 per pound of conch.

The fund will be used to carry out monitoring and surveillance of Jamaican waters to prevent poaching, to enforce the Fisheries Act, and to support the management of established fish sanctuaries, and other initiatives.

In the first year of the levy, the Government says it will collect $60 million, while in the second year, it will put $75 million into its coffers.

Opposition Senator Norman Grant recommended that the fund also be used to set up a revolving loan scheme for farmers.

However, Senator Wehby said the proposal could not be taken on-board at this time, but consideration would be given to the idea at a later stage.

edmond.campbell@gleanerjm.com