General
People's Party Challenges Department of Fisheries Budget Allocation
The People's Party has criticized the Department of Fisheries' budget, specifically questioning the lack of funding for proposed smart giant river prawn hatcheries.
According to a report by Matichon Online on September 8, 2026, members of the People's Party (PChN) have voiced strong criticism regarding the proposed budget for the Department of Fisheries. The opposition party specifically highlighted the absence of funding for the construction of six 'smart' giant river prawn hatcheries, a project they argue is essential to addressing the current crisis facing the prawn industry.
During budget deliberations, the People's Party representatives questioned the department's priorities, suggesting that the failure to invest in these technological upgrades reflects a lack of urgency in supporting local aquaculture. They raised concerns about whether the department is being overly cautious or hesitant in its decision-making process, potentially at the expense of prawn farmers who are struggling with production challenges.
For residents and those involved in the local agricultural sector, this debate underscores ongoing tensions regarding government spending on food security and agricultural innovation. While the People's Party has made these claims, it remains to be confirmed how the Department of Fisheries will respond to these specific criticisms or if the budget proposal will be amended to include the requested hatchery projects. As of now, the department has not issued a formal rebuttal regarding the specific concerns raised by the opposition.