By Olivia Rose From Turks and Caicos Weekly News

A Spanking new fish Market on Grand Turk was officially declared open by Minister responsible for Tourism Porsha Stubbs-Smith on Tuesday August 15 2016.

Fishing is an integral part of the Turks and Caicos Islands culture; as fishermen across the islands provide a highly valued service.

The Government has seen it fit to ensure that proper facilities are in place for these persons, as they suitably prepare and distribute their product in the best manner.

According to a post on the Government`s facebook page, the fish market will further serve as a tourist attraction, allowing visitors the opportunity to watch as fisherman land their daily catch and witness the preparation.

Commenting at the brief ribbon –cutting ceremony Minister Stubbs-Smith said: “I trust that this facility empowers our local fishermen and the community alike, the opportunities presented here are endless.”

She further expressed her gratitude to Invest TCI for their eagerness to address the community and encourage all interested persons to reach out to the department for further information and assistance.

During the ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Turks and Caicos John Ruther educated the community and fishermen of the Micro Small Medium Enterprise (MSME) program.

The Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME is a government funded program managed by Invest Turks and Caicos, the program makes provision for the Government to provide Concession Orders to qualifying businesses which operate in identified priority business sectors.

Fisheries (subsector fish farming, fish processing) and physical infrastructure are considered essential to the fisheries subsectors and are two of the priority areas which are supported under the program.

This provides great potential for developing a thriving fresh fish restaurant, allowing locals and tourists alike to purchase directly from the fishermen and having it prepared on the premises.

The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) also has an office space at the location, which allows the department to engage all users in environmental education, providing information about fishing and environment regulations.

A small, modern restaurant facility is also included within the Market is, and will be available for rent.

For more on this story go to: http://tcweeklynews.com/spanking-new-fish-market-for-grand-turk-p7331-127.htm

IMAGE: www.visittci.com