France’s Secretary of State for the Sea Hervé Berville has announced the extension of the fuel aid mechanism for the fishing industry.
This was originally implemented in March, compensating fishermen with €0.35 per litre of diesel, and the plan was expected to expire on 31st July.
‘Since taking office, my priority has been to provide concrete solutions to fishermen and wholesalers who have been strongly affected by the increase in the price of diesel,’ he said.
‘On my proposal, the Prime Minister therefore decided to extend the fuel aid which was to end on 31st July. I also obtained from the European Commission an increase in the ceiling for state aid per company.’
This state compensates for the rises in costs and the ongoing uncertainty due to the sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.
These aid measures will be extended until 30th September, remaining at 35 cents (excluding taxes) per litre of diesel. It applies to the professional sector and represents a financial commitment by the French state of as much as €18 million.
‘With these measures in which the Government plays its full part, fishermen will be able to benefit from more visibility to get through the next few months,’ Hervé Berville said.
‘I will also work over the long term with the entire sector to pursue this approach by defending the actors and supporting them to consolidate the French fishing sector in a sustainable way and strengthen its competitiveness because it guarantees our food sovereignty.’
