Jersey’s fishing fleet is struggling amid huge increases in fuel costs and is unable to compete on a level playing field with its French counterparts, who are receiving emergency government subsidies, according to an industry representative.
Don Thompson, president of the Jersey Fishermen’s Association, said that the price of marine fuel had almost trebled since the start of 2022 and boats were having to return to harbour sooner than they were used to due to the extra cost.
This week the French government announced it would be providing fuel subsidies as various sectors and the population struggle to cope with rising costs brought on by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Mr Thompson said local fishermen were aggrieved that their French counterparts who use the Island’s waters were receiving support, while they were not…