The valuable contribution that small-scale fisheries play was underlined by the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions during a round table yesterday. Local and regional leaders stressed the importance of small-scale fisheries for coastal communities throughout Europe, in terms of the social economy highlighting their contribution to employment, wealth and tourism. The need for coastal investment was also stressed so that the areas do not deteriorate.
Speaking on behalf of the EPP Group, Jesús Gamallo Aller claimed that Galicia is the first fishing region of Europe. "It accounts for 10% of Europe's total employment in this sector and 10% of the EU fresh fish catch. While 2.1% of the region’s GDP comes from fisheries, it is important to stress that one fifth of this corresponds to small-scale coastal fisheries. By supporting this sector, we contribute to population retention and to ecosystems preservation" he said.
Seeing small scale fisheries are also a small, but indispensable, part of the tourism industry, Bruno Hranić added. "Small-scale fisheries not only supply fresh fish, they also attract tourists and help addressing seasonality in tourism, creating jobs locally in isolated regions, which are often struggling economically" he said. "We are talking about a sector that cannot be replaced."
The debate was organised by the CoR's NAT commission to discuss with legislators, stakeholders and fishermen policy options for the revival of small fishing communities in the context of the decline in small scale fisheries. A delegation of fishermen from Croatia attended the meeting, highlighting that commercial fishing is represented primarily by small-scale coastal fisheries in the country
