The European Fisheries Control Agency’s vessel, Ocean Sentinel, arrived in Amorgos yesterday and was visited by Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou as part of the rollout of the Presidential Decree linked to the “Amorgorama” initiative.
“Today marks the implementation of the Presidential Decree for ‘Amorgorama,’ a significant initiative led by the fishermen of Amorgos that sets fishing restrictions to safeguard the island’s marine resources. This initiative gained support from local fishermen, the community, the mayor, the municipality, and various island residents, alongside backing from civil society organizations, the Cyclades Preservation Fund, and the Blue Marine Foundation, as well as assistance from the State and multiple ministries,” Mr. Papastavrou stated, noting its patriotic importance and its role in advancing marine conservation with European Union support in the South Aegean and Ionian marine parks.
Vangelis Kyriacopoulos, Secretary General of Shipping and Ports, highlighted the significance of the program for fishermen and the need for legal security in fishing practices, emphasizing collaboration with the Coast Guard and the implementation of electronic monitoring systems to ensure compliance with regulations.
During the visit, Mr. Papastavrou received updates from EFCA Executive Director Dr. Susan Steele about the agency’s operations and the Ocean Sentinel’s capabilities, which conducted 4,500 inspections last year while training onboard professionals.
“We are on the Ocean Sentinel, which conducts Mediterranean patrols with inspectors from Greece, Italy, Cyprus, and Malta. Our goal is to ensure equitable conditions for all Mediterranean fishermen. It is crucial that all are treated fairly, no matter where they fish in Europe,” Dr. Steele remarked, adding that the vessel has been stationed in the Mediterranean since 2022, conducting numerous inspections leading to significant increases in bluefin tuna populations. Legal fishermen have reportedly felt more secure due to the coordinated efforts of member states’ coast guards and fisheries control authorities to promote sustainable fishing practices.
“Today is significant as we conclude a decade-long effort to protect our marine areas. Moving forward, we will monitor compliance with fishing restrictions in cooperation with the Ministry,” stated Michalis Krosman, president of the Amorgos fishing association.
From today, the Presidential Decree for “Amorgorama” is in effect, imposing fishing restrictions in the coastal zone of the island to protect its marine ecosystem. This decree (PD No. 73), published in the Government Gazette on August 18, 2025 (No. 148, A Issue), outlines regulatory measures for fishing activities along the island’s coastline.
The action plan includes a fishing moratorium in April and May, crucial months for fish reproduction, beach cleanups in hard-to-access areas within the same timeframe, a transition to more sustainable fishing gear, and the establishment of three Marine Protected Areas as no-fishing zones along Amorgos Island’s coastline.
Mission Th. Papakostas
Source Photo: AMNA/Th.Papakostas
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