The article examines how FLAGs can help to address major fisheries related challenges at local level, and the specific contribution they can make to involving fishing communities in wider territorial development.

The case studies also looked at how the delivery system for local development support in fisheries areas can be made to work more effectively, as well as to encourage initiative and innovation at local level. These findings are presented in the last article of the magazine.

Good progress is being made in fisheries areas across the EU, and this edition of the magazine focuses on some of the latest developments in Cornwall (UK) and in the Abruzzo region (Italy).

The last report looks at the structure and functioning of the Lesvos FLAG (Greece), which is capitalising on the experience of the Lesvos Leader group.

FARNET also spoke to Mr Struan Stevenson, Senior Vice President of the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee, who highlights the importance of community-led local development in supporting fishermen, entrepreneurs and other local stakeholders to work together to improve the situation in local fishing communities.

Smart, sustainable and inclusive local communities are the building blocks of a smart, sustainable and inclusive Europe, so let us all; local stakeholders, FLAG managers, managing authorities and DG MARE, work together to make this a reality in our fisheries areas!

• FARNET Magazine n° 7