July 21, 2014 — "I remain concerned that the parameters of the plan neglects the fishermen who need assistance the most."
This week, the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) is hosting public meetings to seek input from fishermen and industry stakeholders on one portion of the federal disaster assistance funding for the commercial groundfish industry. $8.2 million will be provided to the Common wealth for discretionary distribution for additional mitigation efforts.
Since the inclusion of disaster funding in the FY2014 Consolidated Appropriations Act in January, the National Marine Fisheries Service and affected states have negotiated a plan to distribute roughly $33 million in funding al located for our region. In addition to discretionary state grants, this breakdown includes direct assistance for eligible permit holders funds on hold for a forthcoming vessel buyout or buyback initiative.
Despite the extensive negotiations, I remain concerned that the parameters of the plan neglects the fishermen who need assistance most. Groundfish landings under 5,000 pounds do not qualify for direct assistance – leaving nearly 600 groundfish permit holders in Massachusetts ineligible. In fact, only 100 or so of the approximately 700 federal groundfish permits in Massachusetts, 400 active boats, and one thousand crew members would receive direct federal assistance – otherwise neglecting crew members and deck hands who continue to struggle to stay financially solvent as a result of this disaster. Further, fishermen with multiple permits may be eligible to be compensated multiple times, while other active permit holders are entirely excluded from the relief.
Read the full opinion at The Enterprise