The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF), representing fishers’ trade unions across Europe, closely followed yesterday’s confirmation hearing of Commissioner-designate for Fisheries and Oceans, Cōstas Kadīs. During the hearing, a range of critical issues for the fisheries sector were discussed.
Nature of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP)
We appreciate Mr. Kadīs for emphasizing that the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) rests on three essential pillars: environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The ETF has long argued that, in recent years, measures prioritizing environmental sustainability have overshadowed the social and economic dimensions on the sector. As Commissioner for Fisheries, Mr. Kadīs will need to champion a balanced approach that ensures a sustainable future for fisheries while recognizing the sector’s role in providing healthy food to EU citizens.
CFP Evaluation
Significant attention was given to the ongoing evaluation of the CFP. which This appears to be now a much more ambitious exercise than what it was in the intentions of the previous Commissioner. This evaluation will, in his words, identify areas where adjustments are necessary to meet the sector’s evolving challenges. The ETF is and will be actively engaged in this process, providing input to ensure the evaluation considers the perspectives of fishers and their communities.
Small-Scale Fisheries
Concerns were raised regarding the difficulties faced by small-scale fisheries, which represent a substantial share of vessels and employment in coastal areas. The ETF is acutely aware of the impact that untailored policies have on small-scale vessels and businesses, and we hope that Mr. Kadīs will address the unique needs of small-scale fisheries and the working conditions of their crew members in his mandate.
Gross Tonnage Limitation and Landing Obligation
Mr. Kadīs openly stated that he would not adopt a dogmatic stance on gross tonnage limitations or landing obligations, showing a clear distance from the previous Commissioner’s approach. The ETF welcomes this perspective, having advocated for years to revise these measures to improve onboard working and living conditions and to develop practical alternatives to reduce bycatches.
Sector Attractiveness
While Mr. Kadīs acknowledged the demographic challenges facing the fisheries workforce, concrete proposals were lacking. According to the ETF’s analysis, the sector’s low appeal to young workers stems from a combination of factors, including lack of perspective for the sector, poor working and living conditions, low pay and safety concerns. Policies aiming to reverse this trend must consider these interrelated issues.
Marine Ecosystems and Human Activity Impact
The ETF appreciates Mr. Kadīs’s recognition that oceans and marine life are impacted by various human activities, not just fisheries. We have long argued that fisheries alone should not bear the full burden of mitigating pressures on marine ecosystems. While restrictions on fishing efforts may be necessary for sustainability, the collective impact of all human activities on marine resources must be addressed.
The ETF welcomes the Commission’s decision to separate the Fisheries and Environment portfolios, ending the unbalanced association that left fisheries as the only economic sector under the environment umbrella. This change should help ensure that fisheries are fairly represented and not disproportionately impacted compared to other sectors. The ETF looks forward to working with Commissioner Kadīs to strengthen the EU fisheries sector across all three pillars.