The Regional Secretary of Natural Resources highlighted today the important role played by associations in the implementation of strategies to promote fish caught in the Azores and to boost the income of fishers and shipowners, which are being developed by the Regional Government. The government official pointed out as an example the partnership with the Fisheries Federation for the creation of filleting and freezing plant at the premises of Espada Pesca, São Miguel Island.

"Associations are an important partner throughout the entire circuit since they operate on all islands," especially on those where the number of agents is limited. In this context, Espada Pescas allows fishers to sell their catches," said Luís Neto Viveiros. The government official spoke at the end of a visit to the premises of this public company, where the new processing plant will enter into operation.

The Regional Secretary added that the adaptation works, a public investment of about 150 thousand Euros, should be completed by the early summer. This place will be fitted with some refrigerator equipments as well as with an area for filleting and packaging of fish products, which are primarily addressed at the local market.

"Indeed, our goal is to provide an outlet for the fish caught in the seasons of greater abundance when prices are lower. Through this process, the fish caught will be stored and packaged in order to be sold at a time when prices are more favourable to the entire fisheries sector," said Luís Neto Viveiros.

By promoting this project, we intend to not only revitalise the market, boost its profitability and safeguard the income of fishers and shipowners throughout the year, but also to foster sustainable fishing practices in the Azores sea, through the promotion of species of low commercial value, such as swordfish or Mediterranean parrotfish.