The European Association of POs (EAPO) has put on record its appreciation of the swift action of the European Parliament and the European Council for their swiftness in aiding fishermen – and is calling for equal treatment of fishermen in Member States’ support mechanisms.
The measures adopted at the plenary session of the European Parliament will allow Member States to use the remnants of the EMFF funds to compensate fishing businesses and the processing sector for additional costs, income foregone and seafood storage. Temporary cessation of fishing activities has been made possible for companies that cannot continue operations due to economic constraints, due to the consequences of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
According to EAPO, since the war began, fishing businesses have been asked to maintain their activity despite fuel prices greatly jeopardising their profitability. Fuel prices have skyrocketed, reaching an all-time high of €1.80 per litre in certain countries, while the profitability threshold is around €0.60/litre.
‘Responses from each Member State have greatly varied. While some have had quick and effective responses with a reduction of the fuel price per litre, others have refused to compensate their fishermen, sparking port blockades,’ an EAPO representative stated.
‘These measures being retroactive, it will bring relief to fishermen who have maintained their activities, their crew’s employment and fish supply for European consumers, sometimes at the cost of their own profitability. These measures will allow fishermen to get ready to take on the challenges to come such as working on fossil-free vessels.’
‘EAPO looks forward to seeing the Member States act quickly in their adaptation of these measures and in their use of the toolbox the EU has put at their disposal to help fishermen overcome this unprecedented crisis. EAPO asks each Member State to aid fishermen in the same way to maintain a level playing field.’
