The Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP) party has highlighted the challenges faced by Madeira's largest tuna fishing vessels in recruiting fishermen, viewing this situation as a "warning sign" regarding the structural issues affecting the region's fisheries.
This statement follows the Regional Government's announcement of an increased bigeye tuna quota for 2026, presented as an opportunity to boost incomes. The JPP questions the value of new fishing opportunities if there are insufficient professionals to take advantage of them, advocating for a strategy of modernization and enhancement of the sector.
The party emphasizes the need to place fishermen at the center of decision-making and to address sector-wide problems structurally, rather than merely reacting to isolated difficulties. The struggle to ensure generational renewal and attract new professionals is seen as a concern for the entire Madeiran fishing industry.
The JPP stresses that to secure the future of fisheries and enhance artisanal fishing, conditions must be created for young people to view the profession as a dignified, stable opportunity with future prospects. This includes ensuring generational renewal and retaining fishermen in the activity.
