As fuel prices hit some dizzying new highs, fishing companies across Europe are looking for support from governments to deal with this unprecedented situation.
In France meetings have been held between government and industry figures, but with no concrete action to date that would provide support for these businesses.
‘We understand the challenges of formulating a plan to help commercial fisheries and the problems of compatibility with European principles – but these businesses can’t wait much longer,’ a representative of the Hauts de France Regional Fisheries Committee commented.
‘If the price continues to rise, owners will have no choice but to leave their boats tied up, with consequences for employment across the supply chain.’
According to the Regional Fisheries Committee, urgent action is needed, and industry organisations have already put forward proposals for what could be done.
‘At the same time, we also need to review the European regulations that apply to our activities so that companies can become less dependant on fossil fuels. This is a challenge that can only be met if it is done by the European Union,’ the Regional Fisheries Committee’s spokesman said.
‘The new revision of the Common Fisheries Policy will have to take account of this issue, which affects all European fleets.’
