The National Federation of Fishermen’s Association (NFFO) has urged the government to provide tailored support to help the fishing sector recover from the ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The NFFO is arguing that measures put in place to support businesses fail to meet the needs of the fishing industry. Grants available to the hospitality sector, for example, are not available for boats which are in turn affected because of disappearing demand. Similarly many self-employed fishermen will lose out on wages support because of the way past earnings have been recorded.
In its twice weekly meetings with Defra, the NFFO has argued for a twin-track approach. It calls for tie-up aid for those vessels whose markets have completely disappeared and top-up aid for those vessels where a depleted market still exists to ensure operations and supply chains can continue.
A statement released by the NFFO said that Defra had circulated a list of potential additional measures to assist the fishing sector which the federation has now responded to. “It is our understanding that work is under way on the design of a support package,” said the statement. “Treasury approval will be required but the chancellor’s commitment to do what it takes gives hope that support for what is regarded as a unique and iconic sector will be forthcoming,” it continued.
