Fishing groups threaten protests, Minister warns of harbour disruptions in St Helena Bay

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George, has expressed concern over threats to disrupt harbour activity and public roads around St Helena Bay today. 

Circulated notices suggest that protest organisers intend to block access routes from Paternoster, Vredenburg and Laaiplek.

The protest appears to centre around the allocation of fishing rights, which are “subject to a legally defined appeals process, which is already underway in several cases”, George said.

One of the posts circulating on social media explained that fishers are demanding national intervention, the immediate reform of the small-scale and indigenous fisheries framework, and urgent action on economic disempowerment.

George has since written to the police commissioner to request clarity on whether the necessary authorisations for protest action were obtained.

Saldanha Municipality has urged residents in the St Helena Bay and Langebaan area to be aware of a public demonstration.

“The following roads will be affected: Stompneus Bay and St Helena Bay Main Road, and Oostewal Street and Bree Street, Langebaan.

“The South African Police Services and Law Enforcement officials will be present to monitor the situation and to ensure the safety of the community,” the municipality said.

George added that political pressure or disruptive action will not influence a process that must remain fair, transparent and lawful.

“This ministry does not operate according to who makes the most noise,” he said.

“We operate within the law and in the public interest.”

He said the revitalisation of South Africa’s Proclaimed Fishing Harbours is delivering results, with upgrades completed at 15 sites that support the country’s coastal communities and the broader fishing economy.

In the 2024 to 2025 financial year, the 12 Proclaimed Fishing Harbours handled more than 1 000 vessels.

Thirty-three vessels have already been serviced this financial year, and more than 300 currently make use of mooring facilities.

Completed work includes full signage installation at 15 sites to improve access and navigation, 24-hour security measures at high-risk locations such as Saldanha and Paarden Eiland, and progress in addressing sunken and abandoned vessels that create safety and environmental hazards.

He added that the department has initiated processes with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) in terms of the Wreck and Salvage Act, in which SAMSA is required to remove the wrecks and recover costs from the responsible parties.

The department is also considering further options, including issuing directives, engaging the navy for vessels of military interest, and unlocking the maritime fund.

Signage upgrades were completed between April and June at all 12 proclaimed harbours, along with Elands Bay, Doringbaai and Yzerfontein. Additional signage was added at St Helena Bay on 19 June.

"We are investing in the future of coastal communities by ensuring these harbours are safe, accessible and fit for purpose. This is meaningful progress, and it will continue," said George.

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