Ibiza recreational fishing group opposes Es Freus marine reserve expansion

The Stop Falsas Reservas platform, representing recreational fishing interests in Ibiza and Formentera, has accused the Balearic Government of betraying voters following the announcement to expand the Es Freus Marine Reserve by more than 2,000 hectares.

Diego Alcalde, a spokesperson for the platform, stated that the expansion imposes greater limitations on recreational fishing while providing more privileges to professional fishing sectors. The group noted that despite collecting approximately 4,000 signatures in opposition, the government proceeded with the plan.

Alcalde also alleged that the administration attempted to divide the two islands by facilitating the rapid creation of a separate recreational fishing association in Formentera. Additionally, during a meeting with Belén Palerm, the regional minister for the People's Party (PP), the minister claimed to have faced pressures and insults, though she did not specify the sources.