Fishermen have picked up more than $120,000 thanks to a diesel fuel rebate scheme launched by the Government last April.

The initiative allows full-time fisherman to apply for a $0.37 per litre rebate on diesel fuel, a figure representing a 100 percent return of duty.

In the first six months of the scheme, 35 fishermen benefited, collecting an average $3,500 each ? or the equivalent of $583 a month.

Environment Minister Neletha Butterfield said the rebate was launched to provide assistance to those working in the fishing industry.

?My Ministry will continue to highlight initiatives for those involved in the traditional industries such as fishing and farming,? she said.

?The most recent Throne Speech outlined our commitment to get more young Bermudians engaged in the fishing industry and we hope, by providing some economic relief to those already in the industry, more will be encouraged to explore a career on the ocean.?

Full-time fishermen already benefit from a zero rate of duty on equipment and commercial fishing vessels.