During a press conference, the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights, Alicia Bugeja Said, together with the Aquatic Resources Malta Agency (ARM), announced the details of a new scheme that will provide financial compensation to fishermen with registered vessels who apply to collaborate with researchers during their fishing trips.

This innovative scheme aims to facilitate the collection of real-time data from the sea, by directly involving fishermen in the research process. With this step, Malta is setting an example of how the fishing community can be an integral part of the sustainable management of marine resources.

It was explained that licensed fishermen who apply for this scheme to collaborate in the collection of data on their vessels, will be selected according to established criteria. They will be compensated approximately €320 per catch under the EMFAF DC-MAP programme.

Parliamentary Secretary Bugeja Said stressed that this scheme brings together the principles of sustainability, evidence-based data collection, and the blue economy. “This scheme is a concrete step that shows how Malta is working towards a more responsible and sustainable management of its natural resources. Data collection is crucial for us to make informed decisions and build a strong policy for the future of the fisheries sector.”

The parliamentary secretary concluded, "The government remains committed to strengthening this sector through initiatives that embrace innovation and collaboration, while looking to the future with a clear vision of a strong and sustainable blue economy. This measure will help make research more inclusive, transparent and participatory."

Aquatic Resources Malta, through this scheme, continues to implement its clear mission in favour of research and sustainability in fisheries. The agency thanked all the authorities involved and affirmed its commitment to continue leading the fisheries sector towards a sustainable and strong future for Malta.

Dr Jurgen Mifsud, a scientist and researcher at the agency explained how, “Over the past two decades, Malta has substantially developed its fisheries data collection programme, with the aim of ensuring sustainable management of fish stocks and compliance with the European Union's Common Fisheries Policy. Direct observations at sea by ARM scientific observers are trained to provide crucial data on species caught, their sizes, and fishing practices. ARM encourages fishermen to continue to collaborate with it and the scientific community in this important process, which must be strengthened and regularly implemented around Malta and Gozo."

Applications will be open from Monday 12th May to Saturday 17th May 2025, with assistance from ARM officials from offices in Marsaxlokk, St Paul's Bay and Mġarr, Gozo.​​

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