The UK launch event was organised by the Marine Management Organisation, the British body charged with managing the EMFF in the UK. It was attended by the British Marine and Fisheries Minister George Eustice MP and other government representatives, as well as representatives from the European Commission and from the fisheries and wider marine sector.

Part of the €243 million available will go to help the UK's fleet transition to sustainable and discard-free fisheries. Across the fisheries, aquaculture and processing supply chains, funds will be injected into innovation, onshore and offshore infrastructure and efficient use of natural resources. Small businesses will get easier access to capital and a new emphasis on site restoration will re-attract people to coastal areas. Local development initiatives (aka Fisheries Local Action Groups or FLAGs) will be encouraged to diversify their economies, bring added value to their fishing activities and make fisheries and aquaculture communities stronger.

Other funds are earmarked to develop IT tools and technologies used for control and enforcement and to improve the traceability of fisheries products. Money will also be used to support the collection of fisheries data, which are vital to sustainably manage our seas.

More information

• Overview EMFF
• Factsheet EMFF in the UK