Danish fishers say they leave talks with government officials with renewed hope after a rare face-to-face meeting in Copenhagen, where politicians signalled they are ready to listen to concerns over strict new fishing rules.
Representatives from Bønnerup and Fjellerup harbours met the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries this week. They were given 15 minutes to outline fears that certain provisions of a broad fisheries agreement could harm local fishing and coastal jobs.
Pernille Dohn, spokesperson for Bønnerup Fishermen’s Association, said the meeting marked a shift. She said the goal was to be heard, and that the association now leaves “with hope” that politicians will continue the dialogue.
Politicians open the door to review
Several MPs attended, including the chair of Parliament’s Environment and Food Committee. He said it matters when fishers come in person and raise their concerns, and confirmed he is willing to review the agreement again.
The governing Social Democrats, who are part of the deal, said they stand by the agreement but will look at documented alternatives if better solutions emerge. No promises of change were made.
Fear of bans and closures
Fishers warned that a proposed ban on bottom trawling in large parts of the Kattegat, along with a halt to lumpfish fishing, could make fishing impossible for some vessels. They fear knock-on effects for fishmongers, restaurants and shops in small harbour towns.
The fisheries agreement, struck last summer, includes 37 measures. These include a future ban on bottom-towed gear in central areas and a temporary suspension of a CO₂ tax for fishing until 2029. EU approval could take at least two years.
Minister to respond
Food Minister Jacob Jensen is expected to respond to the fishers’ points within three weeks. Only then will the association know if the meeting leads to real change.
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