Cypriot Fishermen Raise Concerns Over Declining Fish Stocks and the Disappearance of Rare Species

Cypriot fishermen have raised alarms over the dwindling fish stocks in local waters, with some species on the verge of extinction. They also warn that the profession itself is at risk of disappearing.

Leonidas Leonidu, president of the Paphos Coastal Fishing Association, stated that the traditional fishing profession is facing serious threats.

"Fishermen who have been working at sea for many years can clearly see the difference between what they used to catch and what they catch now. It is our responsibility to inform the government and, through dialogue, find solutions to preserve this profession for future generations," he said.

Leonidu pointed out that the main factors contributing to the decline in fish stocks include technological advances, overfishing, sea pollution, and illegal fishing practices.

He also highlighted the specific challenges faced by professional fishermen in Paphos, noting that they are more pronounced in this region compared to others.

One example he gave was the restricted working hours that fishermen must adhere to. During the summer, they are only allowed to fish until 10:00 AM, and in winter, until 11:00 AM. This limits their access to the Kato Paphos port. Fishermen, he explained, often cannot finish their work within these hours, which forces them to use fewer nets in order to meet the deadline and avoid penalties.