Brussels, 09/06/2008 (Agence Europe) - Following their meeting on Friday 6 June in Madrid, heads of the Spanish, French, Italian and Portuguese fisheries departments called on the European Union to authorise “emergency measures” to resolve the crisis currently shaking up the fisheries sector, which is especially due to sharp increases in fuel prices. Governments in these countries will present a common document at the next Agriculture and Fisheries Council on Monday 23 June, containing short and longer term solutions to help the sector. Another meeting between fisheries leaders from these four member states will take place on Wednesday 11 June in Paris.
The four countries will be proposing that “the European Commission authorises adoption, by member states, of possible emergency measures”, indicated the Spanish minister for agriculture and fisheries in a press statement released after the meeting. The press release also affirmed that “this involves guaranteeing a common framework for action, with possible implementation by member states, depending on the specificities of their respective fishing fleets”.
Gasoil price hikes have continued since April 2007 and got worse during the first months of 2008, leading to increased production costs while fish prices “have not risen as much”, explained the Spanish minister, for whom this situation could “seriously affect” jobs in the fishing industry.
Commission rethink. The European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Joe Borg, is preparing a report on possible measures to help fishermen overcome the current crisis. This report could be presented on Wednesday 11 June to the College of European Commissioners. Mr Borg will then submit proposals to the College for approval. During a visit to the Netherlands on Saturday 7 June, Borg recognised that certain immediate measures could be taken to help fishermen experiencing difficulties. Possible areas of action are: - revision of operational programmes for the European Fisheries Fund (to facilitate more targeted funding); - redistribution of funds that have not been spent to help the fisheries sector. The Commission is continuing to oppose fuel price compensation aid and calling for restructuring of the fishing fleets. (L.C/transl. rh)