In March 2008, when global oil prices were skyrocketing, Prime Minister Dung had announced that fishermen, many of whom could no longer afford to put out to sea, would receive government support to pay for fuel. Each fishing vessel owner was to receive between VND15-24 million (US$833-1,413), depending on the vessel’s engine capacity .

The Prime Minister’s decision did not require fishermen to pay off their debts to the local government before they could get the support, the newspaper reported.

Many fishermen who were facing a lot of difficulties had received very small sums of money from the fuel subsidy after their outstanding fishing tax debts were deducted, defeating the purpose of the prime ministerial decision.

According to documents released by the government, the Prime Minister has asked the Chairman of the Binh Dinh People’s Committee to take measures against the violations committed, if the report by the newspaper is correct.

Source: VNA