Fishing is prohibited from Monday in the waters of the Gulf of Bizkaia. The measure, established by the French Government, will be extended until 20 February to protect the time of dolphin fertilization. The ban has been a demand of the environmentalists and the European Union. In addition, the Spanish Government has announced that it will ban net fishing in the Gulf of Bizkaia, although no further details have yet been specified.

Basque fishermen are angry because they will have fewer opportunities to fish. They indicate that this will lead to an increase in the price, as the supply decreases. Economic Development, Sustainability and Environment Counsellor Arantxa Tapia also pointed out that “the price may rise”, but there will be no lack of supply.

Fishermen expect a reduction of 120,000 kilos of fish. The Spanish Government will subsidise fishermen 25% of the losses, while the French Government will pay them 80%.

Fishermen, very angry

Berria has spoken to several fishermen and announced that they have spoken “hard”. “They asked for a month’s standstill, but they want four months and they will continue to do so. Basically its objective is the abolition of fishing. I do not believe that other possible solutions can be found. I doubt whether they are looking for other solutions,” said fisherman Gael Gueff.

Eneko Aierbe, a member of Ekologistak Martxan, also spoke with Berria and defended that although he has opted for the measure, modifications can be made: “For years we and French environmental groups have been denouncing the deaths of thousands of dolphins on the Basque coast. The measure is based, but we do not understand how it has been taken: the recommendation to stop fishing was given by scientists in June.” He explains that “they do not understand” why fishermen have been explained so late, because they could take action earlier.