MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Spain gets tough on illegal fishing

Spain will tighten surveillance of its fishing fleet in an attempt to stop illegal fishery practices and overexploitation of the resources both in national and international fishing waters.

The decision becomes effective February 1, when the Maritime Fishing Bill into full force, reported the Fishing Resources general director at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fishery and Food (MAPA), Fernando Curcio.

Spanish officials said the new legislation covers all aspects associated to illegal fishing, marine reserves, juvenile and protected species, fishing gears and demands full compliance from vessels owners and crews.

The bill contemplates sanctioning those who do not allow on board inspections and offender vessels will be confiscated and held until bail is set and sanctions determined.

However Mr. Curcio highlighted that the ministry's goal is not increasing sanctions and fines, but carrying out a more comprehensive surveillance as of next month. For example, fines of EUR 3.000 are contemplated for undersized fish and EUR 15.000 should the catch exceed the allowed volume by 500 kg, reported the daily La Voz de Galicia. A repeat offender will have to pay an additional fine of EUR 5,000.

Curcio admitted that the latest arrests of several Spanish vessels in Norwegian and Irish waters have led the Spanish government to emphasise the need to comply with rules of responsible fishing in all fisheries.

"Limitation, discipline and rule compliance" are requested to retain Spain's and the fishing sector's reputation, he said. (FIS/MP).-