Schinas from Brussels: landmark deal for Greek fisheries, funding for new vessels

In Brussels, at the EU Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers, the agreement was reached on the new European framework supporting the Common Fisheries Policy for 2028–2034, as ProtoThema reports. This is a decision described as historic, because for the first time in 12 years the way opens for European funding of investments in the fishing fleet — the renewal and modernisation of vessels.

“For the first time we are opening the door to the modernisation and renewal of our fishing fleet. We are also opening opportunities to support small-scale coastal fishing, which is the backbone of our country’s fisheries sector,” Greek Minister of Rural Development and Food Margaritis Schinas declared after the Council concluded, according to ProtoThema’s reporting.

The new funding, as the same outlet explains, does not cover only investments in existing vessels but also extends to the purchase of new vessels — whether built or bought — with the aim of a newer, safer and more modern fleet. The Greek ministry notes that Greece has one of the oldest fishing fleets in the European Union, which makes the agreement particularly important for the country.

Greece took the lead on this issue: according to ProtoThema, Minister Schinas had personally promised Greek fishermen in the ports of Keratsini and Michaniona that he would open the door to strengthening the fleet, and after the Council he said he was “very proud” that the promise became reality. Discussions with the European Parliament on finalising the new framework now continue.