Icelandic Directorate clarifies fishing obligation exemption for Grímsey residents

The Icelandic Directorate of Internal Affairs has clarified that there has been no specific ruling regarding the exemption from fishing obligations for the residents of Grímsey. This exemption had been governed by a regulation from 2015, which was subsequently revoked in 2019.

Grímsey residents have long been aware that their exemption would lapse. According to the Directorate, contracts were based on the old regulation, which expired at the end of August this year. Consequently, locals have had sufficient notice about the impending changes.

Currently, there are ongoing discussions due to six applications received for the fishing quota from the Directorate for the next six years. Residents of Grímsey have been encouraged to collaborate on quota utilization to maximize its benefits for the community.

In recent reports, the Grímsey residents expressed dissatisfaction over the new directive mandating that all catch must be processed locally. They expressed frustration and disappointment with this ruling, prompting discussions with relevant ministers in hopes of reversing the decision, particularly considering its effects on the local population.