The Socialist Party of Madeira (PS-M) has called for the urgent creation of a legislative solution to protect local fishing traditions and halt the seizure of fish intended for self-consumption. Party leader Célia Pessegueiro met with fishermen in Caniçal to discuss the situation, responding to recent confiscations of dried 'gaiado'.
Pessegueiro urged the Regional Government to take responsibility, proposing the establishment of legal exceptions to safeguard both fishermen and inspection authorities. The socialist leader emphasized that current legislation harms the fishing community and places authorities in an awkward position, advocating for proactive measures from the regional government, either through specific regulations or by leveraging influence with EU bodies.
The PS-M seeks future clarity beyond the specific 'gaiado' incident, addressing the issue of fish for family consumption, often referred to as "bucket fish." Proposals include reviewing how fish for personal consumption is accounted for within fishing quotas and creating an exceptional regime for deeply rooted Madeiran cultural practices, such as consuming dried 'gaiado' during festivities. Pessegueiro drew a parallel to the need for exceptional treatment of this tradition, similar to the practice of pig slaughter for self-consumption, highlighting the community and solidarity aspect of this practice in Caniçal.
