Greece Introduces EU-Funded Measures to Support Fishermen
Poinews.com – Minister of Rural Development and Food Margaritis Schinas has unveiled new initiatives to aid professional fishermen dealing with challenges from climate change and illegal practices. The measures aim to reduce operating costs, secure incomes, and stabilize the fishing industry. A key component is a pilot program targeting invasive pufferfish in the Crete and South Aegean regions, funded through European resources.
Subsidy for Culling Toxic Pufferfish
European Union funds will be used to pay fishermen up to €5.33 per kilo for catching invasive pufferfish. This amount is 52% higher than the rate in Cyprus, as stated by the ministry. The plan serves dual purposes: boosting fishermen’s earnings and controlling the spread of the toxic, omnivorous species that damages nets and equipment with its strong jaws.
“Some of the announcements are moving in a positive direction, but I have reservations about the level and scope of financial support,” said Ioannis Bountoukos, president of the Panhellenic Association of Midwater Fisheries.
Fuel Cost Assistance
A separate fuel subsidy will provide €0.16 per litre support for April and May, dropping to €0.12 per litre in June. Schinas noted that this requires a legislative amendment to be implemented effectively.
Compensation for Fishing Restrictions
A compensation scheme will be introduced for fishermen affected by activity limits in national marine parks. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Energy, aims to balance environmental protection with economic support for coastal communities.
Revisions to Fisheries Policies
The ministry proposes lifting the ban on funding engines to lower vessel costs, while promoting investments in durable, efficient fishing gear. Additionally, legislation will be adjusted to simplify entry for new professionals into the sector.
Institutional Representation in Decision-Making
Plans include strengthening fishermen’s involvement in policy decisions by ensuring their representation based on fishing gear types at both regional and national levels, such as the Fisheries Council. This shift ensures professionals shape decisions impacting their work.
Stricter Sanctions for Recreational Fishing
A new system will track amateur anglers and their catches, with penalties applied through a points-based approach. Automatic suspension of fishing vessels will be replaced with sanctions tied to repeated violations, aligning with European law to create a fairer framework.
“He argued that the fuel subsidy does not fully address the actual financial pressures on fishing operations, especially following the disruptions caused by the Iran conflict and increased operational costs,” said Bountoukos.
While acknowledging the pilot program for pufferfish as a step forward, Bountoukos emphasized that its limited geographic scope leaves many professionals without similar support. He also called for scientific evidence before enforcing trawling bans in the Cyclades and marine park restrictions.
