Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy

The Minister of State in Dominica’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, currently held by Hon. Jullan Defoe, plays a vital role in overseeing key sectors that form the foundation of Dominica’s sustainable development goals. Specifically tasked with responsibilities for Fisheries and the Blue Economy, this ministerial position supports national policies aimed at food security, marine conservation, economic diversification, and climate resilience.

Responsibilities and Core Functions

The Minister of State is directly responsible for implementing strategies and managing programs that support Dominican coastal and marine ecosystems while enhancing livelihoods through sustainable fisheries and blue economy initiatives. Key duties include:

• Fisheries Sector Oversight: Supporting artisanal and industrial fishers, rebuilding national fleets, distributing essential fishing equipment, and ensuring improved post-harvest handling and cold-storage infrastructure.
• Blue Economy Development: Promoting marine-based economic activities such as aquaculture, eco-marine tourism, and sustainable seafood export, while aligning these sectors with environmental protection principles.
• Climate and Ocean Governance: Representing Dominica in regional frameworks that address marine resource management, coastal resilience, and transboundary environmental challenges through mechanisms like the Ocean Coordination Mechanism.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborating with fisherfolk, cooperatives, NGOs, and international partners to develop inclusive policies and improve the socio-economic conditions of coastal communities.

By guiding this portfolio, the Minister of State ensures that Dominica’s natural marine resources are managed responsibly, contributing to the island’s food security, employment generation, and long-term economic sustainability.