The artisanal fishing sector in the Canary Islands is at odds with a recent European regulation governing the weighing of catches onboard. The primary grievance concerns fines imposed due to differences between the weight estimated by fishermen at sea and the actual weight recorded on port scales.
This regulation, which includes a tolerance margin, is reportedly causing a surge in fines that, according to those affected, are unfair and are stifling a sector already struggling with survival and generational succession. Fishermen argue that achieving precise weighing at sea, under variable conditions, is extremely difficult.
“"This cannot continue: sanctions must end because it's impossible for fishermen to accurately guess the weight of catches onboard."
The situation is causing significant frustration within the fishing community, who feel that administrative demands are further complicating their daily work, jeopardizing the viability of their businesses and traditional way of life.
