EPP-CoR members call for a strong fisheries budget to safeguard food security, coastal communities and the blue economy
Europe's fisheries can only remain competitive, sustainable and resilient if the European Union provides stable, dedicated funding and puts coastal and island communities at the heart of future maritime policies, EPP-CoR members stressed during an exchange of views with European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis at the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) plenary session on 1 July.The debate focused on the future of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), the European Ocean Pact and the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), as concerns grow over proposed reductions in EU funding for fisheries and aquaculture.
Fernando López Miras (ES/EPP), President of the Region of Murcia, said: "The future of European fisheries depends on three priorities: securing generational renewal, guaranteeing a strong and dedicated fisheries budget, and recognising the commitment of our fishermen to sustainability. Protecting our oceans and preserving a competitive, resilient fishing sector must go hand in hand."
Echoing the need for a balanced approach, Jesús Gamallo Aller (ES/EPP), Director General for External Relations and Relations with the European Union of the Regional Government of Galicia, stressed: "Europe needs a Common Fisheries Policy that balances environmental sustainability with economic viability and territorial cohesion. A strong, dedicated fisheries fund is essential to modernise and decarbonise the sector, protect coastal jobs and communities, and strengthen Europe's food security without weakening support for fisheries in the next EU budget."
Representing Ireland's coastal communities, Brídín Murphy (IE/EPP), Member of Wexford County Council, underlined the human dimension of the sector: "Europe's fishermen need dedicated, accessible and reliable support. Protecting marine biodiversity and restoring fish stocks must go hand in hand with supporting the people who depend on the sea. By working in partnership with fishing communities and ensuring fair, dedicated funding, we can safeguard coastal livelihoods, food security and Europe's maritime heritage for future generations."
María Isabel Urrutia de los Mozos (ES/EPP), Regional Minister for the Presidency, Justice, Security and Administrative Simplification of the Government of Cantabria, warned against the Commission's proposed funding reductions: "In Cantabria, the fishing sector is not just an economic activity; it is part of our identity, our culture and the social fabric of our communities. We therefore strongly oppose the proposed cuts. A 67% reduction in fisheries funding is simply unacceptable. Europe must preserve a dedicated fisheries fund with a budget at least equivalent to the current programming period to ensure this strategic sector has the support it needs."
Responding to members, Commissioner Costas Kadis stressed that the next EU long-term budget should strengthen support for fisheries, aquaculture and the wider blue economy while providing greater flexibility to respond to regional needs. He underlined the essential role of local and regional authorities in delivering EU maritime policies and encouraged Member States to prioritise investment in green modernisation, innovation and generational renewal. Looking ahead, the Commissioner reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to implementing the European Ocean Pact, developing the Vision 2040 for ocean sectors, and preparing dedicated strategies for coastal communities and islands.
EPP-CoR members welcomed the Commissioner's recognition of the role of regions and cities but stressed that these ambitions must be matched by adequate financial resources. They warned that cutting dedicated fisheries funding would undermine food security, weaken Europe's blue economy and threaten the long-term resilience of coastal, island and outermost regions.
The debate also highlighted the importance of the upcoming European Maritime Day 2027, which will be hosted by Santander, Cantabria, as an opportunity to showcase the contribution of Europe's maritime regions to innovation, environmental protection, sustainable fisheries and the blue economy.