Paphos fishermen demand changes to subsidy criteria and debt offsets

Leonidas Leonidou, President of the Paphos Coastal Fishing Association, has warned of dynamic measures if the state does not address professional fishermen's demands. The association is requesting that relevant ministries allow for the offsetting of social insurance and income tax arrears to ensure all members can access subsidies intended to mitigate the impact of protected species. Leonidou criticized the current management of the program, stating that many full-time fishermen receive only a partial grant of 750 euros instead of the full 1,900 euros. A primary concern is the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research's decision to use 2023 catch statistics as a fixed benchmark for the next five years. Currently, only those who caught at least 1,500 kg of fish in 2023 qualify for the full subsidy amount. Fishermen argue this criteria is unfair as it fails to account for those who were unable to meet the target due to illness, boat damage, or lack of equipment. Leonidou warned that the regulation could cause division among the fishing community. He urged the government to revise the plan to reflect current productivity and needs.