The repatriation of 22 Indian fishermen, from Sri Lanka have been delayed due to the prevailing “inclement weather conditions” in the north of the island nation.

The officials here are hopeful that the repatriation process could be completed in a couple of days. They are likely to be sent back by Monday.

Subject to weather conditions, the five boats which have got stuck in coral reefs are likely to be re floated over the next two days.

The Sri Lankan Navy said that they had rescued the fishermen in distress in the Sri Lankan waters and after a local court ordered their release they had been put up in a Jaffna residence pending formalities for repatriation.

“Naval personnel attached to SLNS Wasaba of the Northern Naval Command rescued 12 Indian fishermen when their trawlers were run aground in the seas off Delft Island on 19th December 2011 while Naval personnel attached to SLNS Elara of the same Command rescued 6 Indian fishermen in a trawler run aground in the seas off Analative Island on the same day.

The Navy rescued the fishermen in distress and provided them food and medical assistance after bringing them to safety. These trawlers were poaching in Sri Lankan waters when they ran aground in the Northern seas.” the Sri Lankan Navy said.

Meanwhile the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Fishing is also scheduled to meet in January next year to discuss the fishermen issue and work on the modalities for an acceptable solution to both the sides. This time the JWG meeting is likely to be held in Colombo.