Chega Demands Immediate Payment of Delayed POSEI Fishing Funds
Madeira GuideThe Chega party demands the Portuguese government release overdue POSEI fishing funds, crucial for Madeira's fishing sector survival.
In a recent development that has caught the attention of Madeira's fishing community, the Chega party has demanded that the Portuguese government expedite the payment of overdue POSEI funds allocated for the fishing sector in 2025. The request was made by Francisco Gomes, Chega's representative from Madeira in the Assembly of the Republic, highlighting the critical nature of this issue for the island's economy.
POSEI, which stands for "Programme of Options Specifically Relating to Remoteness and Insularity," is designed to provide financial support to the outermost regions of the European Union, such as Madeira and the Azores. These funds are intended to offset additional costs associated with insular locations and to support the incomes of local fishermen.
"The delay in releasing these funds could have severe repercussions on the survival of the fishing sector in autonomous regions," Francisco Gomes stated in a recent note.
The delay in payment has raised concerns among the local fishing communities, who rely heavily on these funds to sustain their operations. The financial aid is crucial for maintaining the economic stability of the sector, which is a significant part of Madeira's local economy and cultural heritage.
This call to action by Chega is seen as a critical step towards ensuring that the fishing sector receives the necessary support to overcome the challenges posed by geographic and economic isolation. The Portuguese government is urged to respond promptly to avoid further economic distress in these regions.
For both locals and tourists, the fishing industry is not only a backbone of the local economy but also a cultural pillar, offering fresh seafood that is integral to the island's cuisine and hospitality industry.
Sources

Madeira Guide
Author