On Friday 18th October 2024, the Food Security & Sustainable Development Committee (FSSD) conducted a follow-up site visit to the Indian Ocean Tuna Limited (IOT) facilities, following discussions held at the National Assembly on Wednesday 9th October 2024. This was led by the Chairperson of the Committee Hon. Flory Larue accompanied by Hon. Norbert Loizeau, Hon. Regina Esparon, Hon. Francois Adelaide. They were also joined by two Members representing the Central Region Hon. Gervais Henrie and Hon. Andy Labonte. Assistance was provided by Committee Secretary Mrs. Gillian Samson and Assistant Committee Secretary. Ms. Cosette Songoire.
The visit was structured into two groups, with Committee Members given the opportunity to tour both facilities where fishmeal is processed. IOT Staff provided detailed explanations of the machinery in use, including the scrap bin, tipper, crusher, cooler, dryer, and deodorizer. Notably, IOT has recently invested in a cooker and a tri-canter, replacing older models to enhance efficiency. The second facility featured a sludge digester, processing between 10 to 12 tons of sludge daily. In addition to producing fishmeal, IOT also produces fish oil which is exported to Germany for refinement and used in the production of pharmaceutical-grade fish oil pills. IOT further outlined its future investment plans which include converting waste into valuable products such as fertilisers, a move expected to significantly reduce landfill fees and transportation costs.
