Fishermen declare state of emergency and ask king for help

Dutch fishermen face a crisis as the European Union plans to close all Natura 2000 areas at sea to fishing. This proposal is facing strong opposition from the fishing industry. The fishermen have declared a state of emergency and asked for help from King Willem-Alexander.

The fishermen are worried about the future of their industry as they are already facing smaller areas where they can fish. With only 50 of 120 trawler companies remaining, the end of more than 60 companies and the loss of freshly caught, non-farmed fish for the Dutch seems imminent. The fishermen argue for recognition of existing use, allowing long-term fishing licences to be issued, removing inequality with other shipping and allowing nature and fisheries to continue to thrive.

Biodiversity

The European Commission's proposed ban on bottom trawling in marine protected areas is part of an action plan to protect and restore biodiversity by 2030. The fishing sector will have to become more energy efficient and less dependent on fossil fuels. However, the proposed closure of protected areas puts 25% of Europe's fish production at risk. The Dutch fishing sector will be hit hard because many fishermen use bottom trawling and shrimp fishing takes place mainly in the protected areas of the Wadden Sea and North Sea.

Brussels moves too fast

The proposed ban has been criticised by the fishing industry and the Dutch Fishermen's Union believes Brussels is moving too fast. Some fishing vessels will have to go further out to sea, making it difficult for them to catch shrimps, which migrate to shallow waters. The first areas will be closed on 8 March.

In response to the crisis, Dutch fishermen are urging King Willem-Alexander to intervene and help protect their industry. The emergency appeal will soon be delivered to the king and anyone can sign it to show their support. The fishermen hope that recognising the existing custom will allow a compromise between protecting the environment and preserving their livelihood.