Docapesca, the country’s fishing port authority, is planning to invest around €7.6 million in the Algarve’s fishing ports between 2019 and 2021.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of the Sea following a question put forward by the Communist party PCP.
The investment aims to “modernise and revamp the infrastructures and equipment managed by Docapesca and used by the fishing industry, but also used in the recreational boating sector, maritime tourism and river transport services”.
A large portion of the money (€1.1 million) will go towards the renovation of bridges at the Baleeira fishing port in Sagres, Vila do Bispo.
In Portimão, Docapesca plans to rehabilitate the fishing dock’s unloading pier, the road pavement and traffic planning (€750,000) as well as improve the sewage and sanitation system (€600,000).
Substantial works are also planned for Olhão, where Docapesca will carry out a total makeover to the fishing port’s road network (€700,000) while also improving the harvesting, pumping and distribution of saltwater and freshwater.
A close to €1 million investment has been announced for Quarteira, including the complete renovation of the fishing market (€500,000), the construction of a new unloading dock (€250,000) and the partial rearrangement of the fishing port (€200,000).
Last but not least, Docapesca will spend €400,000 in the rehabilitation of the fishing market in Tavira, including the installation of new docks to unload and moor boats.
In response to PCP’s questions, the ministry admitted that Docapesca “only invested” €2.8 million in the Algarve between 2016 and 2017, and €488,000 in 2018.
Before the end of this year, €2.9 million will be invested in improving safety for fishing boats, modernising fish markets and revamping areas used by tourists and recreational boat tours.
michael.bruxo@algarveresident.com
Photos: BRUNO FILIPE PIRES/OPEN MEDIA GROUP
