The 4th Seabream Fish Festival was held yesterday at the Lapta Fishermen’s Harbour, organised by the Lapta Alsancak Çamlıbel Municipality in collaboration with the Lapta Alsancak Karşıyaka Fishermen’s Association. This year’s event successfully blended community spirit with social responsibility, with all proceeds dedicated to the enhancement of water sports and recreational areas for children, youth, and adults.
The festival commenced with the inauguration of a newly completed Accessible Fishing Zone, a pioneering project funded by last year’s festival donations and supported by corporate sponsors. This space enables individuals with disabilities to enjoy fishing independently, marking a significant achievement as the first of its kind in the country.
Ertunç Birinci, President of the Fishermen’s Association, remarked that the festival aims not only to foster social connections but also to contribute meaningfully to community projects. “We are dedicated to merging enjoyment and purpose,” Birinci stated.
Günay Kibrit, President of the Cyprus Turkish Orthopedic Disability Association, highlighted the importance of equal access and inclusion for all individuals. He noted that until this project, there had been no designated fishing areas accessible to people with disabilities and expressed gratitude to all contributors involved.
Fırat Ataser, Mayor of Lapta Alsancak Çamlıbel, reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to fostering inclusive public spaces. He announced plans for new social and beach infrastructure that will incorporate accessibility features, including barrier-free zones tailored for individuals with disabilities.
The festival featured a lively atmosphere enriched with live music performances and various shows. Attendees delighted in freshly grilled seabream sourced from local fishermen representing Lapta, Alsancak, and Karşıyaka, further showcasing the rich marine resources of the region.
Source : BRT
