The Regional Government of Madeira has reaffirmed its commitment to black scabbardfish fishermen, ensuring that the future D. Carlos Marine Protected Area will not impede fishing activities.
Nuno Maciel, Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Fisheries, stated that Madeira will not accept a fully integral reserve where fishing is prohibited, nor will it accept financial compensation for fishermen to leave the sea. He emphasized that Madeiran fishing methods are compatible with marine conservation and that artisanal fishing has always coexisted with marine resources without endangering them.
Maciel also addressed fleet renewal, acknowledging obstacles due to EU regulations but assuring that the Regional Government will continue to advocate for this cause with European institutions. He rejected the notion that fleet modernization would increase pressure on the resource, as catches are already limited by quotas.
