Madeira and Galicia seek reforms to improve fisheries sustainability

The regional government of Madeira announced a €5 million subsidy programme to replace aging swordfish‑fishing vessels with larger, more energy‑efficient boats, aiming to improve crew safety and working conditions. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and Fisheries Nuno Maciel urged the European Commission to revise EU rules that block fleet renewal, emphasizing that modern vessels would reduce environmental impact while preserving sustainable catches.

In Galicia, Environment and Climate Change Councilor Ángeles Vázquez highlighted the role of hunting and continental fishing in maintaining ecological balance. The Xunta allocated €270 000 for habitat improvement projects and €50 000 for fisheries outreach in 2026, and signed cooperation agreements with 50 local societies, providing each a €2 000 grant to support river conservation and sustainable practices.