GFSA expresses serious concerns at ‘temporary boat fishing licenses’

Gibraltar Federation of Sea Anglers has raised its concerns of the news emerging from Spanish media reports that a new licensing regime has been agreed with the Gibraltar Government for non-resident boat anglers. The reports suggest this will start as from April 1. In a statement the GFSA stated it is not in agreement with the Government announcement with regard to temporary boat licenses for non-resident recreational boat anglers.

“No decision was taken at the Fishing Working Group meeting held on Tuesday 8 March that could have been mistaken for and interpreted as recommendations that were made to the Government,” said the statement.

Raising its concern the GFSA it urged the Government to make clear publicly that no new arrangements had  been agreed or were being put into place and that these could, therefore, start April 1.

“This is the minimum that GFSA expects, after which the Federation will be able to take a clearer stand on how to address this matter with Government.”

The statement added that as far as the GFSA was concerned “nothing was agreed” but that discussion did take place on the issue of boat fishing licenses and how some of the concerns raised by Salvador De La Encina and Miguel Tornay could be addressed.

However, it believes these discussion required more thought and reflection before becoming recommendations.