In a joint statement, the mayors of the municipalities of Odemira (Beja) and Sines (Setúbal), on the Alentejo coast, and of Aljezur and Vila do Bispo (Faro), in the Algarve, are concerned about the ban on recreational fishing and consider lifting the restrictions as being an urgent issue.

In addition to “echoing the sentiment of the populations of these municipalities”, they argue that “recreational fishing should be viewed as a sporting activity that helps the family economy” and that “contributes to keeping the mind and body healthy”, according to the statement.

The mayors “demand that, in a responsible and thoughtful manner, these activities can be resumed in the context of the responsible easing of lockdown measures, if necessary phased by parishes, allowing residents to return to fishing in their own parish”.

The letter calls for and tries to sensitise the Government to “a gradual lack of definition for recreational fishing while still maintaining the ban on movement between municipalities”.

“This measure, in addition to the cultural issue rooted in these populations, is fundamental for the well-being of many families, at a time when, in addition to financial difficulties, concerns about the mental health of many people remain”, concludes the statement.