Speaker criticizes Fisheries Minister for failure to perform duties

Speaker of the Parliament Mohamed Nasheed has directed stern criticism towards Fisheries and Agriculture Minister Zaha Waheed for failure to perform the responsibilities of her post.

In today's session, Nasheed said that Minister Zaha had still not formed the relevant regulations related to fishing which is required under the laws related to fishing.

The period for the formation of these regulations has expired and a Parliamentary Committee had even prepared a report stating that Minister Zaha had failed to perform the duties of her role.

The report was sent back to the Committee after Zaha wrote to the Parliament and stated that she would form the necessary regulations. 

Speaking in today's session, Nasheed said that Zaha had still not managed to finish the regulations and have them published on the government gazette.

"I can send this to the Government Oversight Committee, however, I don't know what is there in this to be evaluated or looked into anymore. It is clear that the duties of the post are not performed," said Nasheed.

He reminded parliamentarians that they are to follow the set policy for such situations involving Ministers. 

The Fisheries Act of the Maldives states that a number of regulations are to be formed by the Fisheries Ministry within 90 days. The Oversight Committee which reviewed the matter found that Zaha had not performed her duties in the matter. 

Zaha had then written to the Parliament saying that six related regulations were drafted and sent to the Attorney General's Office. She had said that the regulations will be published very soon.