Newtown Fisheries Cooperative

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Newtown Fisheries Cooperative markets the catch of Newtown fishermen and has evolved to offer additional services to the local community and economy through various fishing methods.

About Newtown Fisheries Cooperative

Newtown Fisheries Cooperative was founded in 1978 with the primary goal of marketing the catch of fishermen in Newtown. It was officially registered in 1981 in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane David, which highlighted the need for a full-fledged fishing cooperative. The cooperative diversified into several fishing techniques, including beach seining, tuna longlining (which was a first in Dominica), deep-sea fishing, and bottom longlining through strategic initiatives and the acquisition of boats and fishing equipment funded by donor agencies. Despite facing challenges such as the loss of vessels and changes in membership, the cooperative has continued to adapt and serve its community. After Hurricane Maria in 2017, it shifted its operations from the Roseau Fisheries Complex to its Newtown location, focusing on selling a wide range of quality fish and providing services like fish cleaning, packaging, and storage.

Newtown Fisheries Cooperative Impact

Newtown Fisheries Cooperative plays a vital role in the local economy and the livelihoods of the fishermen. It offers a variety of fish, including Tuna, Marlin, Redfish, and Lobster, among others. The cooperative also provides essential services like crushed ice, bone meal, and band saw cutting, catering to both the fishermen's and the community's needs. It has been recognized for effectively managing the Roseau Fish Market, highlighting its good record and commitment to quality​.

In recent developments, the fishermen of Newtown are set to benefit from a new vending stall and washroom facility. This project, valued at over seventy thousand dollars, aims to improve the selling conditions and sanitary standards for the fishermen, enhancing fish preservation knowledge and overall community health and pride. The initiative reflects the cooperative's ongoing efforts to support its members and contribute to Newtown's development​.

Recognition and Challenges

Newtown Fisheries Cooperative is among the featured cooperatives by the Cooperative Development Division, reflecting its importance and positive impact within Dominica's cooperative sector. Its journey illustrates resilience in the face of natural disasters and changing economic landscapes, marking it as a key player in the island's fisheries industry. The cooperative's ability to adapt and reinvent itself, especially after the setbacks from Hurricane Maria, showcases the dynamic nature of community organizations in addressing local needs and fostering economic sustainability.