Fisheries MEPs suggest to shorten the chain-supply to help small-scale fishers
Increase small-scale fishers income, renew its fleet through EU funds and improve attractiveness of the profession are among the measures Committee on Fisheries advocated on Wednesday.
Having in mind that there are big differences in the fishing sector within the EU, fisheries MEPs, led by João Pimenta Lopes (Left, PT), proposed to tackle low income and insecurity in the small-scale segment. They want new and shorter distribution channels, increasing the possibility of direct sale to the consumer. MEPs also call on national governments and the EU to defend or create markets of origin, provide stronger support of these products at fairs and restaurants, and demand the creation of promotional campaigns for local fishery products.
With an average of 32.5 years, the renewal of the fleet appears to the fisheries MEPs as another priority for which funding should be provided in the context of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund. MEPs also note the need to ensure that fishing boats are more environmentally friendly.
The need to make the activity attractive for young people and women is another front important to ensure the future of small-scale, coastal and artisanal sector. For this, MEPs urge the Commission to establish and implement support mechanisms in cooperation with EU countries.
In addition, MEPs call on the Commission to launch a comprehensive and region-wide mapping action to develop an accurate and complete baseline data on small-scale fisheries with the purpose of measuring the economic and social impact of this segment both in quantitative and qualitative terms.
The resolution on “Small-scale fisheries situation in the EU” was approved by 23 votes and 3 abstentions. It will go for a final vote in one of the future plenaries.
Background
Despite accounting for some 76% of active vessels (44 702 vessels) and 50% of crew in the EU fleet as a whole (67 760 fishers) in 2018, small-scale fishing represents only 8% of gross tonnage and around 5% of landings.
Contacts:
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Raquel Ramalho LOPES
Press officer