MEMO/08/8
Brussels, 8 January 2008
Estonia: Operational Programme for the Estonian Fisheries Industry (Euroopa Kalandusfondi rakenduskava Eestis 2007-2013) co-funded by the European Fisheries Fund Summary
The European Commission recently approved the Operational Programme for the Estonian Fisheries Industry for the period 2007-2013. The total eligible public expenditure of the programme is € 112 757 386, with EU assistance through the European Fisheries Fund (EFF) amounting to € 84 568 039.
The programme covers the entire territory of Estonia which is designated as a whole as a convergence region.
The purpose and aim of the EU investment
During 2004-2006, Estonia benefited from EU support under the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance (FIFG) of approximately € 12.5 million. As a result 249 projects were supported, 73 new jobs were created and 128 jobs were maintained.
The new EU programme for 2007-2013 aims to build on the success of the previous programme and consolidate the preconditions for a viable fisheries and aquaculture sector that respects nature and meets the demands of consumers and the food industry.
Priority axes
Priority 1: Adaptation of the EU fishing fleet
The objective of this axis is to contribute to the sustainable development of fishing resources. This goal will be pursued by adjusting the fishing capacity of the Baltic Sea trawl fishing fleet to the available fishing resources and by modernising the fleet to improve environmental, safety and hygiene conditions and enhance the selectivity of the fishing gear. Support will also be available for the small-scale coastal fishing sector. Fishers who are affected by permanent cessation will be compensated.
Priority 2: Aquaculture, inland fishing, processing and marketing of fishery products
This axis aims to contribute to the development and sustainability of the aquaculture sector and of inland fishing, as well as to the creation of an effective and competitive processing and marketing chain, mainly by providing investment support.
Priority 3: Measures of common interest
The main focus of this axis will be on managing fisheries-related environmental risks, introducing selective fishing gear through pilot projects, restoring fish spawning grounds and developing quality control systems for fisheries products. Another key goal will be to improve the quality of the fish caught and support fishers who seek to directly add value themselves to the fish they catch.
Priority 4: Sustainable development of fisheries areas
This axis aims to promote socio-economic diversification and an enhanced quality of life in fisheries areas, as well as to restore and preserve the natural and architectural heritage of coastal villages. This priority axis will support local development strategies developed by groups in selected fisheries areas.
Priority 5: Technical assistance
This axis aims to support the efficient implementation of the operational programme by building up and reinforcing administrative capacity.
Responsible Authority and contact details
Ministry of Agriculture
Managing Authority for Operational Programme Contact person: Mr Madis Reinup
Address: Lai 39/41, 15056 Tallinn ESTONIA
Tel. +372 625 61 81
Fax +372 625 65 22
E-mail: madis.reinup@agri.ee
Web: www.agri.ee
Table: Operational Programme for the Estonian Fisheries Industry for the period 2007-2013 -- Euroopa Kalandusfondi rakenduskava Eestis 2007-2013, co-funded by EFF Intervention type: Operational Programme
Financial table
Financing plan by priority axis for the period 2007-2013 (in EUR)
Priority axes Total Public a=(b+c) EFF Contribution (b) National Contribution (c) EFF co-financing rate(d)=(b)/(a)*100 Priority axis 1 20,352,708 15.264.531 5,088,177 75% Priority axis 2 32,778,572 24.583.929 8,194,643 75% Priority axis 3 28,279,552 21.209.664 7,069,888 75% Priority axis 4 25,708,684 19.281.513 6,427,171 75% Priority axis 5 5,637,870 4.228.402 1,409.468 75% Total 112,757,386 84.568.039 28,189,347 75% 
