Fishing is an integral part of the identity and economy of Zygi, while also supporting the community’s gastronomy and tourism, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Minister Christos Senekis said on Saturday.
Speaking at the Fish Festival in Zygi, Senekis highlighted government funding for initiatives aimed at protecting the marine environment and promoting sustainable fisheries management, as well as measures to support fishermen’s incomes.
He said supporting professional fishing was a key priority for the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment.
The ministry was aware of the challenges facing fishermen and, through the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, was promoting policies and initiatives to support their incomes, strengthen the sustainability of the profession and create new opportunities, he said.
80 fishing vessels modernised
“A key tool in this effort is the 2021–2027 Sea, Fisheries and Aquaculture Programme, through which we fund initiatives aimed at protecting the marine environment and sustainably managing fisheries,” Senekis said.
Since April 2024, 80 fishing vessels have been modernised, while professionals involved in small-scale coastal fishing can, for the first time, access grant schemes covering up to 100% of eligible expenditure, without requiring private co-financing, he added.
The government is also implementing targeted measures to support fishermen’s incomes.
These include compensation for the temporary cessation of fishing activities, as well as financial support for the collection and removal of the invasive silver-cheeked toadfish, or lagocephalus. The payment has been increased from €3 to €4.73 per kilogramme.
A compensation scheme for damage to catches caused by dolphins and other protected marine mammals is also continuing. Around 300 professional fishermen benefit from the scheme each year.
Since the scheme was introduced in 2025, compensation totalling €1 million has been paid, while total support is expected to reach €4 million by 2029, Senekis said.
Support for fuel costs and investment
The government has also introduced a scheme providing fishermen with financial compensation towards the cost of agricultural diesel, in response to increased energy pressures affecting the operating costs of professional fishing businesses.
“At the same time, we are investing in aquaculture, as well as the processing and marketing of fishery products,” Senekis said.
Investments worth €2.76 million have already been approved, he added, supporting the modernisation of businesses, improving productivity and promoting innovation across the sector.
Zygi harbour a focal point for fishing
Referring to Zygi Fishing Shelter, Senekis said it was an important centre for fishing activity in the area.
The festival, he added, showcased what made Zygi distinctive: its close relationship with the sea, its fishing tradition, gastronomy and the hospitality of its people.
“Our responsibility is to support the people who make their living from the sea while, at the same time, ensuring that our marine resources and ecosystems remain healthy and productive for future generations,” Senekis said.
Source: CNA
