France’s Minister for Ecological Transition Christophe Béchu has confirmed that compensation will be payable to both fishing operators affected by the temporary closure of Bay of Biscay fishing grounds, and the downstream seafood trade.
The closure applies to waters in the French area of the Bay of Biscay from 22nd January to 20th February, and this controversial measure is intended to protect cetaceans. The prohibition applies to the French fleet – as well as to vessels under the flags of other nations as the French authorities notified the European Commission and EU member states affected by this decision to activate a measure emergency provided for under the CFPs.
According to the ministry, the decision to extend the closure to all European fleets is a measure of fairness, and is taken within the framework of European Union law. The ministry has warned that any vessel found operating with any of the prohibited gears will be subject to legal and administrative proceedings.
Minister Christophe Béchu has announced that the government will broaden and strengthen the conditions of compensation for fishermen. The government will also support, in addition to the support provided by the Regions, the entire downstream and sales sector, if necessary activating partial unemployment measures and specific aid adapted to different situations.
Christophe Béchu has assured CNPMEM president that the government intends to do everything possible to ensure that complete support is paid as quickly as possible, and requested that banks play a role in this by facilitating the rapid flow on finances to affected companies.
