Estonian Official Notes Lack of Fisherman Feedback on New EU Rules

Kaire Märtin, an advisor in the Estonian Ministry of Regional and Agricultural Affairs' fisheries policy department, reported that fishermen offered minimal feedback on a new European Commission implementing regulation that imposes new rules on them. Märtin asserted that Estonia stands by its fishermen and had kept the sector informed about the draft regulation's progress over the two years it was under consideration.

"We have continuously kept our sector informed about the draft and introduced it to the fishermen," Märtin said. "Unfortunately, feedback from stakeholders was scarce."

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Estonia stands by its fishermen!

The regulation directly affects the country's fishing community, introducing new operational requirements and potentially altering fishing practices. Despite the ministry's efforts to communicate and consult, the lack of substantial input from the fishermen themselves raises questions about engagement and the perceived impact of these new EU-mandated rules.

The ministry's statement highlights a potential disconnect between regulatory bodies and the individuals most affected by the new policies. While the intention was to inform, the outcome suggests that the communication channels may not have effectively encouraged or facilitated comprehensive feedback from the fishing community.

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We have continuously kept our sector informed about the draft and introduced it to the fishermen. Unfortunately, feedback from stakeholders was scarce.