In Brussels, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said attended the Council of European Ministers of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Minister Refalo and Parliamentary Secretary Bugeja Said also had a bilateral meeting with the European Commissioner for Fisheries Costas Kadis, where several topics of common interest were discussed, including Malta’s proposal for the lampuki fishing season to open in July as a pilot project, as well as the fight against illegal fishing.
During the European Council, Minister Anton Refalo presented Malta’s position on the European Commission’s proposal for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2027, welcoming the simplification and flexibility efforts but at the same time expressing concerns about certain points, requesting that they be re-analysed and calling for more solutions adapted to the particular circumstances of our country. “European policy must take into account the unique characteristics of our country, with more flexibility in the allocation of funds and sufficient support for small farmers and those maintaining minimal activity,” reiterated Minister Refalo.
Minister Anton Refalo stated that Maltese and Gozitan farmers, ranchers and fishermen play a fundamental role in keeping local production and our marine resources alive. He therefore concluded by saying that European policy should reflect the unique characteristics of our country and provide the necessary support for these vital sectors to continue to be sustainable and competitive in the future.
With regard to fisheries and aquaculture, Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said highlighted the need for European funds to be targeted at attracting more young fishermen through investments in the sector, while continuing to support the work towards more sustainable fishing.
Parliamentary Secretary Bugeja Said also explained the challenges faced by Maltese fishermen, especially in relation to illegal fishing. “Fishing is not just a profession but part of our identity and heritage as Maltese. The Commission must ensure that the voice of Maltese fishermen is heard and ensure that illegal practices stop. Therefore, Malta is proposing a pilot project where the lampuki season opens in the month of July. This is also being proposed because it is also apparent that lampuki are migrating earlier in the Mediterranean.”
Photos: MAFA
