Security and hygiene measures will be implemented at the Fāua fish sale spot to allow fishers to temporarily return to the trading area.
It follows complaints from fishermen abruptly barred from their usual selling spot due to congestion and sanitation concerns.
The temporary approval comes with strict hygiene measures, including prohibiting the placing of fish on the ground and increasing security to ensure cleanliness.
This arrangement will remain in place until the new small vessel port at Popua is operational.
This evening, the Deputy Prime Minister of Tonga announced his appreciation on Facebook for the Ports Board and the Minister of Public Enterprises.
He acknowledged their decision to permit fishers from Hahake, Eua, and the outer islands to continue selling their catch at Faua Wharf.
A recent directive from the Ports Authority of Tonga (PAT) prohibited fish sales at the spot.
The fishermen disagreed with the new directive and reportedly expressed dissatisfaction on social media.
PAT chief executive ‘Alo Maileseni reportedly said the fishermen were informed beforehand about the restrictions.
He said that the designated area is meant for vessels to load and unload cargo and passengers, not for selling fish.
Maileseni said trading in this zone contributes to operational congestion and unsanitary conditions.
