Summary
- Director General of Fishing, Miguel Castell, visits Santa Pola to discuss fishing sector challenges.
- Santa Pola’s local fishing community is set to receive €500,000 in subsidies through GALP Bahía de Santa Pola.
- Discussions focus on improving working conditions and preserving the local fishing industry.
- The new funding is aimed at supporting local fishing and tourism projects until 2029.
Fishing Sector in Santa Pola Faces Critical Challenges
In a significant meeting this week, Miguel Castell, the Director General of Fishing, traveled to Santa Pola to address the pressing issues faced by the local fishing community. Joining Castell were Loreto Serrano, the mayor of Santa Pola, along with key representatives from the Fishing Brotherhood and the Santa Pola Nautical Club. The meeting aimed to understand the challenges and demands of a sector that is critical to the region’s economy and cultural heritage.
Key Highlights from the Meeting
- Funding Support: The GALP Bahía de Santa Pola will manage approximately €500,000 in subsidies for fishing projects across Santa Pola, Guardamar, Torrevieja, and Tabarca.
- Collaboration: The meeting included the participation of local fishing representatives and officials, highlighting the collaborative effort to revitalize the fishing industry.
- Concerns Addressed: Castell acknowledged the hardships faced by the fishing community, emphasizing the need for increased working days and better conditions.
Challenges for the Fishing Community
During the visit, Miguel Castell shared insights from his extensive experience in the fishing sector, noting that the situation for local fishermen is increasingly precarious. He stated:
“The fishing sector needs more working days. Currently, 120 days are not enough for sustainable operations, affecting the livelihoods of the crews and mariners.”
Mayor Loreto Serrano echoed these sentiments, praising Castell for his quick response despite his recent appointment. She expressed confidence in Castell’s understanding of the fishing industry’s complexities and issues.
Future Projects with GALP Bahía de Santa Pola
Funding for Development
On September 24, the Conseller of Agriculture, Miguel Barrachina, signed a collaboration agreement enabling GALP Bahía de Santa Pola to manage local development aid funded by the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (FEMPA).
The agreement is backed by a budget of €2,496,000, which will be available until the end of 2029, allowing substantial support for local fishing and tourism projects. Key aspects of this initiative include:
| Project Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | €2,496,000 |
| Annual Funding | Approx. €500,000 |
| Eligible Areas | Santa Pola, Guardamar, Torrevieja, Isla de Tabarca |
| Funding Coverage | Up to 50% of project costs |
Conclusion
The meeting held in Santa Pola marks a vital step towards securing the future of the fishing industry in the region. With continued support from the GALP and initiatives launched by the local government, there is hope for enhanced conditions and sustainability in fishing, which is integral to both the economy and the community’s culture.
For further details about the meeting and its outcomes, visit the [Santa Pola government website](https://santapola.es/el-director-general-de-pesca-visita-santa-pola-para-atender-las-reivindicaciones-de-un-sector-pesquero-que-se-juega-la-supervivencia/).