Regional Secretary Discusses Fishing Fleet Renovation with MEP
Madeira GuideNuno Maciel, Regional Secretary of Agriculture and Fisheries, met with MEP Paulo Nascimento Cabral to address concerns over fishing fleet renovations and EU policy support.
In a significant meeting held in Madeira, Nuno Maciel, the Regional Secretary of Agriculture and Fisheries, engaged in discussions with Paulo Nascimento Cabral, a Member of the European Parliament from the Azores. The primary focus of their conversation was the renovation of the fishing fleet and related European Union policies.
Maciel raised critical issues regarding the renewal of fishing vessels, emphasizing the challenges posed by European Commission regulations on power and gross tonnage limits. He argued that these restrictions hinder the improvement of habitation, hygiene, and safety conditions aboard the vessels.
"Our fishing is traditional and sustainable. The quotas are defined, and our fishermen won’t catch more fish. They aim to fish under better conditions with a fleet that meets EU standards," Maciel stated.
The MEP, Cabral, expressed his support and promised to bring these concerns to the attention of the European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis. The regional government has allocated €5 million for fleet renewal, offering up to 50% assistance.
Discussions also touched upon the POSEI aid within the Common Agricultural Policy framework, with Maciel expressing the need for ongoing negotiations in the upcoming EU Support Framework 2028-2034. Cabral remarked that these discussions remain open and require further advocacy.
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Madeira Guide
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