The President of the Government required the National Government to provide a quick clarification on the size of the albacore tuna quota, taking into account that Azorean fishers should be surprised by the notification of a quota consumption higher than the catches made so far.
 
"The Regional Government has been requesting the National Government to clarify this difference of figures. The Fisheries Federation is absolutely right and, joining efforts with the Government, its demands grow even stronger," said Vasco Cordeiro.
 
After visiting Horta during the Government's visit to Faial, the President of the Government stated that this "matter has to be clarified." According to him, the Region cannot "have a quota with a previously determined size to guide fishers' activities and, then, be surprised with completely different figures."
 
What is at stake is the national albacore tuna quota set at 1,994 tonnes. In this regard, the Directorate-General for Natural Resources, Safety and Maritime Services reports catches that reach 80 percent of the quota size, while regional data registers that catches made by the Azores and Madeira reach 63 percent of the stipulated quota.
 
"The National Government states that the quota consumption figures already surpass 80 percent.  These are not the figures that we register.  Therefore, such difference in figures has to be quickly clarified quickly," said Vasco Cordeiro.
 
Speaking to journalists, the President of the Government also pointed out that investments of about eight million Euros in the remodelling of several fish markets and cold storage units are currently under way or will soon start in the Region.
 
"Today, the Government published the opening notice of public tender for the redevelopment of Horta Cold Storage Unit, an investment of about 4.5 million Euros," announced Vasco Cordeiro. In this context, he pointed out that the redevelopment and expansion works of Velas Cold Storage Unit are also under way and the works of Lajes das Flores Cold Storage Unit will start soon.
 
Additionally, a new ice production and storage facility will be installed at Rabo de Peixe Port in coming months.
 
"We are talking about eight million Euros, which is quite significant given the importance of this sector. We must work on a daily basis to ensure the best possible conditions for fishers as well for the entire industry," stressed the President of the Government.