Icelandic boat owners consider legal action over eel fishing quotas after court ruling

The National Association of Small Boat Owners in Iceland is considering legal action regarding newly established quotas for eel fishing. Concerns arise from a recent court ruling that deemed similar changes to agricultural laws unconstitutional. The quota regulations were implemented through legislation passed by the Althing in the summer, replacing fishing licenses for all eel boats with a quota system based on historical catch data.

Arthur Bogason, the association’s chairman, noted that numerous small boat fishermen have contacted their office in response to the Reykjavik District Court’s ruling about violations of constitutional rights. He pointed out the procedural similarities between the introduction of the eel fishing quotas and the agricultural law amendments.

The new legislation has effectively stripped about 100 fishing operations of their fishing rights, which were previously allowed for 55 days in the last fishing season. This situation is considered tantamount to a seizure of fishing equipment and tools. Many operators, who expected to benefit from a prosperous quota, have found themselves with drastically reduced allowances, some approaching zero.

Bogason emphasized the need for a robust response to the new legislation, questioning if the procedures surrounding the quota implementation adhere to constitutional law. He expressed disbelief that the relevant authorities had adequately reviewed these matters prior to enacting the laws.

He also mentioned that under the current regulations, fishermen will be able to sell their quotas after two years, although individual ownership will be capped at 1.5% of the total. The ongoing situation highlights significant tensions within the Icelandic fishing industry regarding resource access and management.