Employment and food security are and will always be crucial problems. Fish resources that represent a common heritage for the fishing community and for mankind as a whole, must be preserved. We are concerned with the preservation of these resources as they are in a state of great danger. The alarming condition of some of these "stocks", often caused by over-exploitation associated with environmental degradation, is taking its toll on the fisheries sector in many countries.

Portugal, unfortunately, is one of these countries. Despite a coastline of 962 km and two archipelagos (Madeira and Azores) which give Portugal the widest EEA (Exclusive Economic Area) in the European Union, statistics for the last decade (the number of fishermen has reduced from 41,800 in 1986 to 27,000 in 1996) clearly show that the fisheries sector is reeling under a crisis. And in a country where this sector assumes great social importance, the impact is deeply felt. To cite an example, the Portuguese consume, on an average, about 62 kg of fish annually, which is three times the average of the European Union. The situation has worsened ever since Portugal became a member of the EU. It has lost its historic rights to fish in Northern Europe and along the coasts of a few African countries. About 40% of its float has been destroyed. The disastrous policies of various governments and ship owners have further added to the country’s cup of woes.

The huge sums of money received by Portugal from the European Union have not helped the fisheries sector in this country to gear itself up for the 21st century but have helped a few fishermen to enhance their wealth. The working conditions continue to be difficult and accidents are on the increase. Fishermen’s insurance companies quote a figure of 2000 per year and some of these accidents have been very serious. In 1988 alone, 18 people have died either at sea or at the workplace. Another shocking fact is that ships which were no longer part of the national fleet were employed for the sake of convenience. The ship owners have, thus, benefited from the financial compensation awarded by the Union by continuing to fish in zones to which even Portuguese ship do not have access. Moreover, the workers of such units are denied rights. This is a modern form of slavery and the situation is no different from the joint enterprises where the workers are left out in the cold.

It is important to discuss the Common Fishing Policy (CFP) in great detail as it could worsen the condition of coastal fishery and small-scale fishing. The CFP should be reviewed before the end of 2002 and negotiations are already in progress.

Suggestions for the future

I would like to put forth a few proposals which, according to me, are fundamental for the preservation of fish resources and for the welfare of people dependant on fishing.

The social and economic importance of small-scale fishing in a majority of coastal regions implies that the sovereignty of coastal states must be maintained in the Territorial sea [12 miles]

To guarantee preferential access to the adjoining area (24 miles) which could be extended up to 50 miles for those regions which are more dependant on fisheries or for isolated regions. (This is with specific reference to Azores where the shoals for the local fishing fleet can be found only after a distance of 12 miles).

To maintain the EEA as fixed in the framework of the convention on Law of the Sea.

To provide social and financial support to those affected by steps taken to reduce catches.

To guarantee financial and human resources for scientific research in collaboration with professionals, fishermen and ship owners in order to arrive at a suitable policy for fishing.

To regulate sale by auction, by fixing prices so that all is not left to the "free" market where intermediaries rule the roost.

We must reject a policy of management of fish resources that is primarily based on reducing the fleet as the social consequences of such a measure are not taken into account. We must look for alternate solutions to preserve these resources.

Joaquim Piló (Portugal)
* President of "Sindicato Livre dos Pescadores e Profissões Afins"
[Address: Armazém 17 – DOCAPESCA – Pedrouços - 1400 Lisboa, Portugal.
Tel & Fax: (+ 351.1) 301.50.00]

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