Skylakis: The compensation to be given to Evros fishermen is very important

The compensations to be given to , due to the installation of offshore wind parks in the region of Evros, will be “very important”, according to the Minister of Environment and Energy, . In response to a relevant topical question by the Greek Solving Member, Mr Papadakis, Mr.Skylakis said that in the coming weeks there will be a relevant debate with local fishermen, noting that “only the fishermen will benefit from the fishing population, i.e. they will have more fish in the wider area, and in terms of real compensation which will be very important.” Developing his question, Mr Papadakis said that the installation of offshore wind parks will also cause problems for fishermen and biodiversity, and that the government is reportedly determined to proceed with the project despite negative opinions by competent bodies. He even called on the Minister to say “specifically, what these rewards will be” to fishermen, and, if such consultation was carried out. In his response, Mr.Skylakis said that compensation for the retaliation is the subject of discussion, which has already begun between the ministries of Rural Development and Environment & Energy. “We will listen to fishermen in person, since these projects are still in the early phase: It is in the process of researching the fair potential and weather conditions in the region. Before we reach the next phase, which is the progress of projects with environmental studies, and after seeing where the wind turbines will go, how much they will be, what revenue they will generate, and after we have completed the consultation with fishermen – why we must also see the cost caused, the number of wind turbines and where they will go, the real limitation that fishermen will have – we will come to give fair and very satisfactory compensation. We are talking about projects whose implementation is set in 2029-2030, and within the next few weeks we will have the relevant debate with local fishermen,” said Mr.Skylakis. Finally, commenting on the environmental dimension raised by Mr Papadakis, Mr.Skylakis said that “Europe has the most advanced environmental legislation on the planet, much more than other regions, see Russians etc., working on the opposite side, and we have a Council of State, which is extremely sensitive environmental.” Source: RES – ICM