A pilot programme to catch silver-cheeked toadfish in Crete and the South Aegean is expected to begin in the first months of 2027, with an initial budget of €1.5 million, while a new compensation procedure is being developed for damage to fishing gear caused by protected marine species. The measures were outlined at a meeting at the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, chaired by Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Food Thanasis Kavvadas, with representatives of coastal fisheries from various parts of the country.
According to an announcement issued today by the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, the possibility of providing loans to professional fishers is also being considered, with the aim of facilitating investment in the sector.
As for the programme to tackle the silver-cheeked toadfish, the relevant Joint Ministerial Decision has already been signed by the deputy minister. The programme agreement and the remaining administrative procedures are still to be completed.
The initiative will initially be implemented in Crete and the South Aegean, with the possibility of extending it to other areas, such as the Peloponnese, to be considered at a later stage.
Regarding compensation for damage to fishing gear and losses in production caused by protected marine species, Mr Kavvadas signed an amendment to Decision No. 2004/11.11.2024 on Action 1.6.2, paving the way for a new support scheme for 2026.
The amendment provides for coverage of vessels using nets and hook-and-line gear, with the aim of ensuring a fairer allocation of available resources. Fishing activity will be documented through monthly production reports, while the relevant call for applications is expected to be issued after the decision is published in the Government Gazette.
According to figures presented at the meeting, around €41 million was paid to 9,500 professional fishers in 2024-2025 for damage sustained in 2022-2024.
Meanwhile, there was strong interest in the scheme to modernise fishing vessels, with a budget of €16 million. The deadline for applications closed on 30 October.
A total of 339 applications were submitted, with proposed investments totalling €29.9 million and requested public funding of around €20 million, about 25% more than the available funds.
According to the same announcement, Mr Kavvadas said that the possibility of providing loans to professional fishers was being explored through a financing instrument similar to the one being designed for farmers. Meetings on the issue have already begun.
At the meeting, representatives of coastal fishers also raised the issue of fuel costs, highlighting the difficulties small vessels face in accessing the relevant support because they buy limited quantities from fuel stations.
The Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Food acknowledged the need to find practical solutions tailored to the specific operating conditions of coastal fisheries.
Discussion also covered issues of unfair competition and the distinction between professional and recreational fishing.
On the collective representation of the sector, the deputy minister noted that Law 5336/2026 provides for the legal representation of fishers, by type of fishing gear, at federation and confederation level.
According to the ministry’s announcement, representatives of fishers expressed satisfaction with the government’s response to issues affecting the sector.
Finally, Mr Kavvadas reiterated that protecting professional fishers’ incomes, ensuring the sustainability of coastal fisheries and making use of available financing instruments are key priorities for the ministry.
SOURCE: ANA-MPA