NWWAC warns that small scale fisheries face funding barriers, regulatory burdens, data gaps and uneven training standards across the EU
Advisory Council Flags Funding Limits, Bureaucracy And Regulatory Burdens
The North Western Waters Advisory Council has outlined a series of structural barriers that it says continue to undermine the long term sustainability and renewal of small scale and coastal fisheries across Europe.
The organisation’s latest contribution to the EU’s Implementation Dialogue argues that many of the challenges facing small operators also apply to larger fleets, and that dividing representation between the two is counterproductive.
According to the Advisory Council, fleet renewal remains the central requirement for environmental, economic and social sustainability. It said modernisation, innovation and better integration of technology on board are essential to improve safety and make the sector more attractive to new entrants.
The group also stressed the need for improved digital tools, simplified data collection systems, enhanced training opportunities and greater focus on the physical and mental health of those working in the fishing industry.
The Advisory Council told the EU that decarbonisation policies must take account of real obstacles faced by the sector, and that tailored business and finance options are required. It identified EU funding programmes such as EMFAF, Horizon Europe and possible European Investment Bank involvement as areas that need to be adapted to support practical fleet improvements.
Financial Access Blocked By Bureaucracy, According To Advisory Council
The organisation said excessive bureaucracy and the limited flexibility of current financial instruments continue to block operators from accessing EU and private support. It pointed to State Aid limitations, weak funding for technological innovation and difficulties linked to the revised Control Regulation, which it said has introduced additional complexity for small scale operators.
The Advisory Council argues that both the European Commission and Member States need to streamline administrative procedures to allow genuine participation in financial schemes.
Calls For Better Social And Economic Data
The group said that more work is required to gather social data, integrate social and economic indicators into management models and include local knowledge in policy development. It said a full analysis of fuel efficiency efforts across European fleets is needed to understand what improvements have already been made and where further gains are possible.
Good Practice Examples Highlighted
The Advisory Council identified several examples of innovation and good practice already in use in Europe, naming the French company GLAZ, the Institut Maritime de Prévention and the Fisheries Working Environment Council. It said such initiatives improve safety, working conditions and operational performance, and should be supported more broadly across the EU.
Sector Needs Consistent Training Standards And Practical Skills
On training and upskilling, the group said the EU must work towards a more uniform regulatory landscape for certification and training requirements. It warned that training periods often result in lost earnings because fishing activities must be suspended, and argued that financial support is needed to avoid penalising participants.
The Advisory Council said fishermen must receive practical instruction on fuel efficient technologies, sustainable techniques, and digital and artificial intelligence tools, including navigation software, real time data systems and engine monitoring systems. It said these capabilities will help operators reduce environmental impacts and improve operational efficiency.
