Message from the Regional Government of the Azores on National Fishers' Day - Communication

Secretaria Regional do Mar e das Pescas

Today, May 31, marks National Fishers' Day, a date that pays tribute to the men and women who dedicate their lives to the sea and find their livelihood in fishing. In the Azores, the Regional Secretariat for the Sea and Fisheries recognised the bravery, resilience and crucial importance of these professionals to the cultural identity and economy of the Region and the country.

Fishing transcends its economic function; it is a legacy passed down from generation to generation, shaping coastal communities and preserving a way of life. Fishers are guardians of ancestral traditions and knowledge.

The contribution of fishers to the economy of the Region and the country is undeniable. In the Azores, more than two thousand families depend directly on fishing. Over the last seven years, nearly nine thousand tonnes have been caught each year, equivalent to an average annual income of about 33 million Euros. This sector is an economic pillar of the Region, supplying fresh and high-quality products, and contributing to the development of other economic activities such as tourism and catering. Safeguarding the future of this occupation requires ensuring its sustainability through responsible fishing practices and careful management of marine resources.

Fishers face daily challenges, such as the rising production costs related to their activity, the volatility of the internal and external markets and the impacts of climate change. The role of the Regional Government, aligned with the needs of the sector, is fundamental so that they can continue to carry out their activities with dignity and in a sustainable manner.

Training is one of the relevant initiatives to support the sector, aimed at improving this occupation and acknowledging its value. Participants in this initiative will have the possibility to continue working while studying, avoiding the loss of income during the training period. Investing in the training of fishers is fundamental for the safety, efficiency and sustainability of fishing, creating opportunities for future generations.

On National Fishers' Day, it is important to note that the Regional Government's plan for 2024 will bring new responses and support to the fisheries sector. This year's priorities include improvements to the infrastructures supporting fishing activity as well as fishers' working and safety conditions. There are also concerns about promoting the sustainability and effort of catches, adding value to Azorean fish and boosting the sector's competitiveness.

The celebration of National Fishers' Day is also a moment to reflect on the importance of this sector and the relevance of the participation of its stakeholders in improving regional public policies. The fishing industry associations in the Region are celebrating this date by meeting with the fisheries department in the city of Horta. This is another moment to reiterate the Regional Government's commitment to hearing the representatives of the fishing sector to draw up a better future for fishing, praising those who face the sea every day to support their families and contribute to wealth generation in our country.

Mário Rui Pinho
Regional Secretary for the Sea and Fisheries