The fishing sector of the Maltese islands is a varied one, with broad biological, socio-economic and cultural dimensions. Fishing goes beyond a job, or a source of nutrition for many of us; for thousands of families, it is a livelihood that has been passed down to them from one generation to the next, and around which their lifestyle revolves.

The Fisheries Directorate is responsible for the implementation of policies and strategies that address this important sector, namely:

• the conservation of naturally occurring fish stocks;
• the taking of such measures as may be considered appropriate for the protection of fish stocks;
• the collection of statistics including details of catches from catch to sales;
• the development and management of fisheries;
• the maintenance of a fishing register, with updated vessel details including its captains;
• the monitoring, control and surveillance of fishing operations;
• the regulation of the conduct of fishing operations including operations ancillary thereto;
• the issuing of licences and other various authorisations;
• the implementation of fisheries-related policies according to current political directions;
• attending meetings overseas to ensure that Malta’s voice is always heard amongst international fora;
• maintain a healthy and frequent contact with fishermen’s organisations and cooperatives and together discuss how fishing situations can be improved;
• the implementation of various projects aiming to provide a better service to Gozitan and Maltese fishermen as well as investing in tools required by the Department;
• the issuing of various schemes in aid of fishermen;
• the implementation of measures included in the electoral manifest and the Government budget;
• holding meetings with fishermen and operators whenever the need arises in order to provide a better service to the Department’s clients.