MEP Thomas Bajada has described a “historic step forward towards justice for Maltese fishers” after Tunisia, for the first time ever within the GFCM framework, initiated action against its vessels. The development follows 21 potential infringements identified by the EFCA control boat during joint inspections conducted by Malta, Italy and Tunisia over the past year.
Bajada, who led the European Parliament delegation at the GFCM annual meeting, said that after months of diplomatic engagement, Tunisia has confirmed sanctions on its own fishers. These measures include “the detention of ships in port and seizures.” He stated that this progress shows that “responsibility is starting to be taken and that cooperation between parties is bearing fruit.”
In an unprecedented move within GFCM, the European Commission has also requested that the vessel Sonia be added to the GFCM IUU List, effectively banning it from operating in the Mediterranean and eventually worldwide. Bajada noted that this proposal stemmed from direct reports by Maltese fishers, which he relayed, supported by official reports from the Department of Fisheries.
Bajada thanked Commissioner Costas Kadis, Maltese officials and fishers, and stressed: “This is just one step, but a big one.”
🇲🇹 For the latest updates and stories from across Malta, follow News of Malta.
