Europêche is urging the authorities to help mitigate the problems that the EU fishing sector will face as a result of measures taken to help halt the spread of COVID-19.
The primary concern is the continuity of fishing activities and food supply to EU citizens. Measures are also needed for those vessles forced to cease operations. In a paper sent to EU decision makers the sector points our severe problems such as port and equipment supply restrictions and soaring freight prices.
“Our fishermen are doing a fantastic job,” said Daniel Voces, managing director of Europêche. “While far away from their homes and families, they continue bringing healthy seafood to our plates in a very challenging environment. They deserve the full attention of our public authorities to secure their safety, their economies and the continuity of the food supply”.
In order to mitigate the current situation of trade disruptions and falling market demand, Europêche is asking for legislative changes to enable fishermen to carry over more than the exiting 10% of their quotas to next year and for fair prices for unsold fish.
The document also asks for measures to support the logistical needs of crew and ships and urges policy makers to modify the fisheries fund regulation to provide financial aid to those companies forced to cease operations. Furthermore it calls on members states to reduce VAT and tax as necessary and to consider extending the Brexit transition period by 12 months at least.
