Crisis y oportunidades en la pesca de Margarita | MARGARITA

Introduction to the Fishing Industry in Nueva Esparta

Overview of the Discussion

• The program "Zona Éxitos" welcomes Lisandro Vázquez, president of the Venezuelan Chamber of High Seas Fishing Industry, highlighting his representation from Macanao Peninsula.

• The conversation addresses significant challenges faced by the fishing industry, particularly focusing on fuel shortages and necessary supplies for fishing operations.

Key Challenges in the Fishing Sector

• Vázquez emphasizes the need for financial support to operate a fleet of 600 vessels effectively in Nueva Esparta.

• He notes that many fishermen are currently hindered by financial constraints due to currency devaluation affecting their savings.

Financial Constraints Impacting Operations

Importance of Financial Support

• Vázquez explains that without access to financing, operational capabilities of fishing boats are severely limited.

• He shares personal experiences about how currency evaluation has led many boat owners into bankruptcy, complicating recovery efforts.

Operational Dynamics at Sea

• Most vessels spend extended periods at sea (5 to 8 months), returning every 15 to 20 days for resupply and family contact via technology like WhatsApp and FaceTime.

Potential Solutions for Growth

Strategies for Improvement

• There is a discussion on leveraging foreign sales in hard currency as a means to enhance local economic stability through savings plans and capital investment strategies.

• Emphasis is placed on state policies supporting soft loans aimed at rehabilitating damaged vessels and improving maintenance practices.

Community Organization and Leadership

• Vázquez suggests that organizing within the community could lead to self-sustaining funding mechanisms without immediate reliance on external banks or government aid.

• He expresses confidence in collective action among fishermen under effective leadership can significantly boost productivity.

Personal Journey and Commitment

Background of Lisandro Vázquez

• Vázquez shares his extensive experience in fishing over 18 years before transitioning into oil tanker navigation, emphasizing sacrifices made for family stability.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

• After leaving maritime work, he ventured into taxi services while maintaining ties with the fishing industry through family connections.

Ongoing Advocacy

• Despite diversifying his career, he remains actively involved in advocating for fishermen's rights and addressing sector needs with local authorities.

Economic Resources and Banking Needs

Discussion on Economic Resources

• The conversation emphasizes that economic resources are crucial, but the future should not solely depend on the oil sector. A proposal for creating an independent fund is presented as an optimal solution for financing.

Banking Infrastructure Challenges

• There is a significant lack of banking institutions in Boca de Pozo, leading to cash being stored insecurely. The need for a local bank is highlighted to facilitate financial transactions.

Digitalization of Banking

• The speaker discusses the global trend of banking digitalization, noting that banks are closing branches rather than opening new ones. This shift impacts how cash transactions are managed in Venezuela.

Cash Management in Fishing Industry

• The fishing industry relies heavily on cash transactions, with fishermen often leaving money with clients abroad (in places like Trinidad and Guyana). A physical bank presence would alleviate some logistical challenges.

Efforts to Establish Local Banking Services

• Plans are underway to establish a small bank branch in Boca de Pozo, which would significantly improve access to banking services for local fishermen and reduce travel time for financial needs.

Carpentry and Fishing Industry Insights

Introduction of Carpentry Expert

• Luis Velázquez, a carpenter specializing in boat construction, shares his background and experiences within the fishing industry. His journey into carpentry began at a young age near a shipyard.

Learning from Experience

• Luis reflects on his learning process through various mentors he encountered throughout his life while working at the shipyard. He acknowledges the influence of older carpenters on his skills.

Cost of Boat Construction

• The estimated cost to build a fishing vessel is around $10,000. Key components discussed include the keel and bridge (cabin), highlighting modern technological requirements such as GPS systems.

Modern Technology in Fishing Vessels

• Today's fishing boats incorporate advanced technology allowing communication via satellite internet (e.g., Starlink), enhancing connectivity even when out at sea.

Encouraging Future Generations

• Luis expresses concern about the lack of interest among youth in traditional carpentry skills due to monetary motivations rather than passion or craftsmanship. He mentions efforts by David Botón's school aimed at fostering interest among young people in this craft.

Fishing Traditions and Experiences

Reflections on Traditional Fishing

• The discussion highlights the importance of experiencing traditional fishing methods, akin to those used by ancestors, emphasizing a connection to cultural heritage.

• Lisandro Vázquez is acknowledged for his presence in the program, indicating a shared interest in discussing fishing experiences.

• Luis Vázquez, identified as a carpenter from Macanao Peninsula, shares insights into his personal experiences related to fishing traditions.

Program Closure and Acknowledgments

• The host expresses gratitude towards Lisandro and Luis for their contributions, showcasing appreciation for guest participation.

• The program concludes with thanks directed at the audience for their support and engagement, reinforcing community ties.