Fishermen’s organisations in France, The Netherlands and Belgium have confirmed that a gentlemen’s agreement to regulate seine netting activity in the eastern part of the English Channel has been reached.
This outlines technical specifications for fishing gears, designated fishing areas and fishing effort levels, with the objective of establishing a collaborative approach among the fishermen to address current challenges and future concerns.
Bruno Margollé vice-president of French industry organisation CNPMEM stated that he ‘welcomes the GA as a start of a joint approach of fishing activities in the Eastern Channel.’
‘An agreement between fishermen is always appreciated, as it fosters mutual respect among those working at sea,’ said Emiel Brouckaert of Belgian vessel operators’ federation Rederscentrale.
French, Dutch, and Belgian fishermen have been fishing the same grounds in the Channel for many years as the seine net fishery has developed. In addition to EU fishing regulations, fishermen recognised the need to establish more specific agreements for the Eastern Channel.
The terms of the Gentlemen’s Agreement (GA) took effect on the 1st of November 2024, with fishing organisations responsible for overseeing compliance.
‘As Dutch fishermen we are guests in French waters and the GA provides a foundation to strengthen our relationship,’ said Durk van Tuinen of the Dutch Fishermen’s Association.
The concerned organisations in France, The Netherlands and Belgium confirm that all French and Belgian fishermen have signed the agreement, along with almost all Dutch demersal fishermen eligible to fish in the Eastern Channel.
They state that they remain hopeful that the remaining Dutch fishermen will soon sign the agreement, ensuring full participation from all sides. Representatives of the organisations have extended an invitation to UK seine netters to join the agreement.
