In a meeting held on Monday, the Council of Torrevieja approved a motion supporting the local fishing industry, presented by Rosario Martínez Chazarra of the Popular Party. This unanimous decision comes as the European Commission begins to gather public input on new regulations for the Common Fisheries Policy, with a deadline for submissions on twenty-first April twenty twenty-five. The fishing sector is vital to Torrevieja’s economy and cultural identity.

The urgency of the motion arises from the recent decisions of the European Council, which have severely restricted annual fishing days to just twenty-seven. This measure threatens the viability of the local fishing industry, which supports numerous jobs and has significant social value in the community. While the catch of the Valencian fishing fleet rose by twenty-five percent in twenty twenty-four compared to the previous year, the restrictions complicate the industry’s sustainability.

Torrevieja’s fishing community has also been active in environmental efforts, removing one hundred fifty thousand tonnes of waste from the Mediterranean in the past year. The Council has made recommendations to the Spanish Government, requesting an increase in fishing days as well as better transparency in determining sustainable fishing criteria. The aim is to create a more balanced and stable fishing environment.

Authorities have called for adjustments that consider the unique conditions of Mediterranean fishing, highlighting that existing regulations often reflect Atlantic fishing practices. The Council’s hope is to ensure a fair and sustainable future for the fishing industry, which has deep roots in the local community.