Science and Innovation Minister Diana Morant announced that this Saturday the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Innovation will present the appeal from Vigo, in collaboration with the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO). The event will emphasize a shared, science-led approach to fishing policy and sea management, highlighting a belief that the work of the Spanish fishing fleet aligns with sustainability and the protection of the marine environment.
Morant stressed that science remains a partner to the nation, working across ministries to ensure the sea benefits society in a sustainable way while supporting workers in the productive sector. She spoke after the keel-laying ceremony for the oceanographic ship Odón de Buen at the Armón Vigo shipyard, noting that government resources are being coordinated to strengthen Spain’s capabilities in ocean science and fisheries research.
The minister also noted that the European Commission’s Commissioner for Fisheries, Oceans and the Environment, Virginijus Sinkevičius, is weighing a proposed ban on bottom fishing in more than 400 meters depth across 87 Atlantic regions. This consideration has influenced the scheduling of a forthcoming scientific and maritime briefing, which will take place in the city of Oliva.
Morant affirmed the commitment to establishing a dedicated science and fishing forum in Vigo. She described the initiative as a pilot project with many more to come, intended to bring scientific knowledge closer to everyday life and to the fishermen who depend on it. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, speaking to reporters about government plans, echoed that sentiment and noted that although an October celebration was initially announced, it will be postponed in light of evolving developments within the executive branch.
Following remarks that one purpose of the maritime briefing is to clarify the European Commission’s decisions, officials indicated that the event would be postponed without a fixed date until the situation becomes clearer. The planning team is approaching the process with care to ensure accurate, timely information is shared as the scenario unfolds. The aim is to maintain the momentum of constructive dialogue between science and the fishing industry while safeguarding national interests and environmental goals.