The Regional Secretariat for the Sea, Science and Technology has decided to open an exception to the conditions on fishing activities using purse seine and brailing gear on the island of São Miguel.
 
An ordinance published today in the Official Journal determines that the use of purse seine and brailing gear may be authorised on Sundays on the island of São Miguel, upon request by a local association representing the sector until 2 PM of Friday preceeding the date when the gear will be used. The authorisation will be granted provided that the first sale of fish caught using this type of gear, including mackerel, mackerel and sardines, has not occurred three days before.
 
The associations representing the fishing industry of São Miguel and Terceira island and the Azores Fisheries Federation were heard on the preparation of this amendment.
 
The ordinance published on October 8 2014 stipulated the rules for the fishing of species caught with purse seine and brailing gear. It was determined that the use of these techniques would be only allowed between 6 AM Monday and Friday 6 AM.
 
The Regional Secretary for the Sea, Science and Technology pointed out that the amendment to the legal document that comes into force Tuesday, March 21, "concerns the need to adapt the rules to the current needs of fishing activities using this type of gear on São Miguel island."
 
In this context, Gui Menezes assured that the Government of the Azores "is always available to talk with industry associations and vessel owners on the rules laid down regarding fishing activities."
 
The Regional Secretary for the Sea stressed that the Government intends to "ensure the sustainability of fishing activities using these techniques, thus contributing to a more balanced exploration of resources" in the Azores Sea.