Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has said that the Government has released MVR 881 million to fishermen.

Addressing a press conference on Sunday, Minister Shiyam said that between November 17 and April 22, MVR 881 million has been released to fishermen and the dues to be paid are at MVR 61 million.

The Minister added that it would be difficult to pay fishermen unless MIFCO cuts down on its expenses.

As such, MIFCO has set a target of reducing its oil costs by moving towards renewable energy, he said.

On March 3, President Dr. Muizzu said that the Government is working to ensure that the 'back log' of payments owed are cleared and the target is to pay fishermen within 48 hours.