Squid strike
More than 60 fishermen representing a national organization of squid fishing associations gathered in Tokyo on Wednesday. NHK says this is the first of a 2-day suspension of operations by more than 900 boats around Japan:
The fishermen say fuel prices are 2.4 times higher than 5 years ago, and that going out to sea will only create losses. The organization's deputy chairman Hiroyuki Noto said at the rally that the fishers need fundamental measures by the government to stop the abnormally sharp rise in fuel prices that is killing them. Participants chanted slogans calling for help to sustain their operations.
Later, they visited the Fisheries Agency and handed over a letter asking the government to help them pay for fuel and to cut fuel taxes. Associations of tuna and mackerel fishers are also planning to stop going out to sea. The moves are expected to affect the shipment and prices of marine products.
Do watch the video at NHK World: Fishermen urge government support for fuel
Fishermen in Spain and Italy are also on strike, with riots in Brussels last week.
BBC: Fishermen clash with police at EU
According to BBC, the fishermen said they will go out of business unless the EU allows national governments to give them more financial aid and subsidise their fuel:
French fishermen have been on strike for several weeks over the price of diesel, which has risen by 240% in the past five years. In recent days they have been joined by members of fleets from the UK, Spain, Portugal and Italy, who have blockaded ports across Europe, and truck drivers.
Comments
Sailboats, gentlemen.
Perhaps now the oceans can have a much needed rest and the life forms in them can replenish themselves.