Fishermen across the UK will be able to apply for a share of €243m in new European Maritime and Fisheries Funding (EMFF) to help their businesses adapt to the reformed Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and support their long-term sustainability and economic growth Fisheries Minister George Eustice has announced.

The funding secured by the UK government will be open for applications in England from 18 January next year, and will initially focus on supporting our commitment to fish at sustainable levels, as well as boosting the competitiveness of the fishing industry and aquaculture sector.

Funding will be available to support port and harbour improvements and innovation in the processing sector which will provide huge benefits for coastal communities and businesses. Fishermen will also be supported as the discard ban takes effect with EMFF money available to part-fund the purchase or development of innovative gear for more selective fishing, or to help develop new markets for fish that were previously discarded.

In addition Defra has asked Seafish to set up an industry expert panel, covering the fisheries chain in England, to advise on how EMFF funding can be used to best promote economic growth in the sector. Together this scheme is vital to help our industry adapt to the challenges of the future while supporting business.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/european-fisheries-fund-to-boost-sustainable-fishing-in-uk