A new industrial machine for ice production has arrived at the Port of Playa de Santiago, on La Gomera. This equipment addresses a demand from the fishing sector in the island's southern region, aiming to optimize fish preservation.
The initiative, led by the Canary Islands Government's Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Food Sovereignty in coordination with the La Gomera Island Council (Cabildo), involved an investment of 16,049.98 euros. Additional investments are planned to adapt the port facility where the service will be provided.
The introduction of this machine marks a significant advancement in Playa de Santiago's fishing infrastructure. It will facilitate the future establishment of a first-sale point, thereby strengthening the commercialization capabilities for catches from the artisanal fleet operating in the area.
“"Coordination between administrations is key to responding to specific needs of the fishing sector and equipping it with spaces, equipment, and services that allow its economic activity to develop under better conditions."
Casimiro Curbelo, the Island Council's president, highlighted the specific utility of this machine for fishing professionals, emphasizing that having ice at the port itself is an essential service for the treatment and preservation of catches. This equipment complements ongoing improvements towards opening a first-sale point.
The island president underscored the cooperation between the Canary Islands Government and the La Gomera Island Council in addressing sector demands, stressing the importance of coordinating public resources for artisanal fishing, particularly in coastal communities with significant economic and social impact.
“"This action responds to a demand raised by the sector in Playa de Santiago and is part of the initiatives developed by the Canary Islands Executive to support the fishing fleet in its activities."
Narvay Quintero, the Canary Islands Government Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Food Sovereignty, stated that the objective is to continue strengthening artisanal fishing capacity, facilitating the conservation and commercialization of catches, while supporting a labor with essential economic, social, and cultural value that helps sustain many coastal communities and promotes food sovereignty in the Islands.
The new machine has the capacity to produce up to 1,000 kilograms of flake ice per day. Designed with non-corrosive, high-strength materials, it generates flat, cold, and dry flakes ideal for refrigerating fish from the artisanal fleet. Its design includes a static cylinder and a cutting system to optimize ice generation.
