NIA Restores Livelihood of Senior Fisherman with Donation of New Boat Engine

Introduction

NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (April 11, 2025)– The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has come to the aid of senior fisherman Mr. Franklyn Daniel, restoring his ability to make a living after the devastating theft of his boat engine months ago.

The Donation Ceremony

In a heartfelt ceremony held at Mr. Daniel’s home in Garner’s, Fountain Village, on Thursday, April 10, the NIA officially presented him with a brand-new outboard Yamaha Enduro engine valued at EC $12,800, ensuring he could return to the sea and continue the trade he has practiced for over six decades.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, Deputy Premier the Honourable Eric Evelyn, described the donation as a meaningful act of compassion by the Cabinet.

“It is a wonderful day because we are here for a wonderful gesture from the Nevis Island Administration,” said Minister Evelyn. “A few months ago, we had the very unfortunate news that some unscrupulous individual or individuals had taken away Mr. Daniel’s livelihood. They took his boat with his engine, and practically everything else.”

Supporting Mr. Daniel’s Safe Return to Fishing

Mr. Daniel, who is over 80 years old and still actively fishing, was left unable to work when his vessel was stolen. While the boat was eventually recovered, the engine was not. The NIA Cabinet responded swiftly and in full agreement.

“We made a unanimous decision that we will donate a brand-new engine to Mr. Daniel so that he can get back on the water,” Hon. Evelyn explained. “It is a costly piece of equipment, but we made the decision as a caring Administration… to restore his trade, and we are delighted that we are able to do this this morning.”

Additional Support

To further support Mr. Daniel’s safe return to fishing, Minister Evelyn also presented a VHF radio set, generously donated by Mr. Donald Bartlett of Dunn’s Mobile Marine in Florida, a Nevisian living abroad.

“We want to applaud Mr. Bartlett for this initiative,” said Evelyn. “I’m sure this VHF radio will go very far when Mr. Daniel goes out on sea, because it is important that when you’re out on sea that you have the necessary safety equipment as well.”

Response from the Community

Director of Marine Resources for St. Kitts and Nevis, Mr. Randel Thompson, praised the NIA’s commitment to supporting its citizens.

“This morning we are now having a moment of restoration… A very, very good gesture from the Nevis Island Administration that he could continue his trade as a fisherman,” said Thompson. “So I really want to thank the fishing community, the Nevis Island Administration, and of course the support from the Department of Marine Resources for making this a reality.”

Conclusion

Thanks to the united efforts of the Nevis Island Administration, local departments, and caring individuals, Mr. Franklyn Daniel will once again set out to sea, providing not only for his family but also contributing to food security on the island.