The Dodecanese MP seeks an extension of fuel subsidies, immediate implementation of the pufferfish programme and stronger action against illegal fish sales.
The operating costs of fishing vessels, the launch of a pilot programme for catching pufferfish and illegal fish sales are the focus of a parliamentary intervention by Manos Konsolas. The Dodecanese MP has submitted three proposals to Greece’s Minister of Rural Development and Food, calling for financial support and practical measures for professional fishers.
Extended fuel support and faster payments
Konsolas is seeking an extension of the fishing diesel subsidy, initially for the second half of 2026, citing continuing increases in fuel prices.
According to his intervention, the previously announced subsidy amounted to €0.16 per litre for April and May and €0.12 per litre for June. He proposes that support cover both coastal fishers and operators in the medium-scale fishing sector, with eligibility and support based on fishing activity and daily fuel consumption.
He also calls for simpler procedures, from application to payment, arguing that fishers need timely access to funds to meet their vessels’ operating expenses.
Turning the pufferfish programme into action
The second proposal concerns the immediate launch of the pilot programme for catching lagokefalos, or silver-cheeked toadfish, a species of pufferfish. According to the press release, the programme provides for a subsidy of €5.33 per kilogram.
Konsolas calls for the regulatory framework to be completed and for practical arrangements to be put in place, including collection, landing, weighing and storage points, alongside transport for the fish’s subsequent handling.
His proposal identifies incineration or use in the production of fishmeal or pharmaceutical substances as potential management routes. He also asks for a clearly defined payment procedure for beneficiaries.
Stronger checks on illegal fish sales
The third part of the intervention concerns people who sell catches without being professional fishers or meeting the corresponding tax and social insurance obligations.
Konsolas distinguishes recreational fishing from illegal commercial activity and calls for more intensive inspections. He also proposes examining whether all vessels could be included in an electronic monitoring platform, following the model that, according to his statement, has been established for professional fishers.
The intervention brings together requests to reduce operating costs, implement the pufferfish programme and address unfair competition. These remain proposals submitted to the ministry; the press release does not report a ministerial response or an implementation decision.
