The fishermen in the North said they have observed a gradual reduction in the number of Indian fishermen entering the island waters illegally and poaching in the recent past. However, they said some Indian fishermen are still engaged in fishing activities in violation of Sri Lankan maritime boundary and asked the ministers to take steps to completely prevent the Indian fishermen from stealing their resources.

Both ministers briefing the fishermen in the North said that they were able to reduce the illegal entering of Indian fishermen by about 75 percent. The two ministers apprised the northern fishermen that the present government was able to resolve this issue due to the diplomatic level discussions between India and Sri Lanka and pledged to further hold discussions on the fishermen's request. Deputy Chairman of Committees of Parliament Selvam Adaikalanathan, Mannar Fisheries Assistant Director and Divisional Secretary also participated in the discussions.a