In a recent meeting of the Agriculture Commission, the challenges faced by commercial fishermen in obtaining licenses took center stage, highlighting a pressing issue that has persisted since Hurricane María. Miguel Ortiz Serrano, a representative from the fishing community, voiced concerns about the bureaucratic hurdles that have left many fishermen without the necessary licenses to operate legally.

Ortiz detailed his personal experiences, noting that he has had to escort local fishermen from Vega Baja and Vega Alta to the regional office in Arecibo, only to find them unattended. He questioned the methodology behind the licensing process, emphasizing the need for a more efficient system to handle applications. The backlog of nearly 10,000 applications, exacerbated by the hurricane, has created a chaotic situation where legitimate fishermen struggle to renew their licenses while facing potential fines for fishing without them.

The meeting revealed a broader frustration with the Department of Natural Resources, which has not convened its advisory board in five years. Ortiz expressed disappointment over the lack of communication and collaboration, stating that the department has failed to recognize its inefficiencies. He urged for a comprehensive list of pending licenses to be processed expediently, allowing fishermen to access their livelihoods without fear of legal repercussions.

In a bid to streamline the process, a proposal was put forth to create an online portal for license applications, which received support from the commission. However, Ortiz pointed out that limited staffing at the department continues to hinder progress. He also suggested the introduction of recreational fishing licenses, which could generate significant revenue for both commercial and recreational fishing sectors.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of addressing these licensing issues was clear. The livelihoods of many fishermen depend on timely access to their licenses, and the commission's commitment to resolving these challenges will be crucial in supporting the fishing community's recovery and sustainability.