The European Commission awaits more scientific data, but warns it will not revise its veto on bottom fisheries
In the wake of recent developments, the Galician fishing community watches closely as the debate over bottom fisheries intensifies. European Commissioner for Fisheries, Oceans and the Environment, Virginijus Sinkevičius, did not appear at the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee as expected, prompting renewed scrutiny of the veto. The regulation, already in effect, has drawn sharp reactions from regional leaders who argue that the new rules will reshape coastal livelihoods. In many regions, fishing deeper than 400 meters is no longer possible, given the current depth limitations. Opinions around the veto have become highly polarized, with critics describing the move as inconsistent while supporters stress the need for conservation. As the calendar turns toward the New Year, prices for certain species are anticipated to rise as supply tightens and restrictions bite.
The European Commission indicates that additional scientific data are needed before any formal reconsideration of the bottom fishing ban. However, officials emphasize that a revision will not be automatic. The message is clear: data will be gathered, analyzed, and then weighed against the established conservation objectives before any change to the veto is considered. The stance leaves fishermen and industry stakeholders in a wait-and-see position, hoping for clarity in the near term.
Industry voices stress that some species will be difficult to harvest under the new regime. Bream and shrimp, in particular, require specific depths, and the revised rules threaten to limit options for catching them. Consumers may notice price shifts and possible changes in imports as markets adjust to the new reality. Observers also note the broader economic impact, including potential advantages for non-EU suppliers as demand maintains its pace. These developments come amid ongoing discussions about how the EU policy affects regional economies along Atlantic waters.
The sentiments of fishermen from Bueu Bay reflect a common concern: increased costs are seen as likely to accompany the tighter quotas and restrictions on certain species. Some fear that the EU plan could draw more northern and southern fleets into a more intense competition for limited fishing grounds, potentially aggravating tensions between fleets operating in adjacent waters. As debates continue, calls for careful implementation and monitoring of the policy persist, with an emphasis on balancing conservation goals with the viability of coastal communities.
“Portugal supports Spain in appealing fisheries veto; rigor and legal certainty needed”
The Lugo Fish Producers Organization highlights its position in the broader dialogue. The European Commission is viewed by many industry stakeholders as moving at a measured pace, attempting to justify the veto with data that some argue may be outdated. Officials underscore the expected impacts on winter catches and the overall volumes involved, noting that exporters are watching closely as the season progresses. The timing is crucial, especially given the upcoming Christmas campaign and the potential ripple effects across supply chains.
Porto de Celeiro’s fleet leader adds his perspective, aligning with others who criticize the European Commission’s method. He points to perceived biases and questions whether the campaign truly reflects the situation on the ground. Galicia’s protests are seen by some as a catalyst for broader concerns about how Brussels shapes fishing rules. There is also worry among Basque fleet operators that restrictions elsewhere in Atlantic waters could force a reconfiguration of where Galician boats fish, possibly leading to shared fisheries in new zones and potential coordination challenges.