Fishing for subsidies

The newspaper comments on the latest blockades of fishing harbours and refineries in France, by means of which French fishermen hope to force the state to give them subsidies. "Once more the fishermen are turning to the state, and demanding that the taxpayer support them in one way or another. Is this the proper solution? There are good reasons to doubt it. First of all, it is very probable that the European Union will refuse direct public aid. In addition, subsidies would only cover up the real problem. The fishermen will face three growing challenges in coming years: scarce resources, increased competition and a rise in the price of raw materials. In such a situation, subsidies are not an appropriate solution."

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