Currently representing around 198 fishermen’s associations, known as cofradías, 30,000 affiliates and 8000 small-scale fishing vessel owners, the Spanish National Federation of Cofradías (FNCP,) has become the latest full member to join Europêche as of 1st February 2020.
The Spanish National Federation of Cofradías embodies traditional coastal fishermen’s associations which date back to the eleventh century. A large part of the fleet FNCP represents are small-scale vessels and businesses, which provide a vital source of food and nutrition, jobs, trade and economic well-being. To the point that in many coastal communities more than half of the local jobs are in the fishing sector.
‘These are difficult times for our fishermen. The fishing activity that characterises the small-scale fleets requires specific rules adapted to each region of Europe for its sustainable management and to guarantee a future for our fishermen,’ said Basilio Otero, President of the FNCP.
‘However, complex fisheries rules are negotiated and decided in Brussels. It is therefore fundamental for our organisation to make sure that these are workable and designed as close as possible to the fisheries reality. We look forward to contributing our long experience and expertise to sustainably manage our seas and defend the interests of the small-scale scale costal fleets that supply fresh, high quality and locally-caught products.’
‘This growing membership and co-operation represents a positive step for the European fishing sector and a stronger voice for the fishermen,’ commented Europêche managing director Daniel Voces.
‘We look forward to supporting and closely collaborating with FNCP which will undoubtedly benefit the work of Europêche and the wider fishing industry. FNCP will further expand Europêche’s undisputed leadership in the promotion of sustainable fishing practices across Europe.’
