Netherlands to compensate fishermen 13.5 million euros for Iran war fuel costs

State Secretary Silvio Erkens of Agriculture (VVD) is making 13.5 million euros available to Dutch fishermen to offset higher fuel prices triggered by the war in Iran.

The money comes from a European fund originally intended for sustainability in the fishing industry. European money accounts for 70 percent of the fund, with the Dutch government contributing the remaining 30 percent.

Fishermen will receive compensation for increased operating expenses since the end of February. The amount each company receives will vary. Erkens is consulting with the sector on the best way to design the program.

Some fishermen have stayed in port due to high fuel prices. The fund's rules do not allow compensation for lost revenue from not sailing.

Brussels announced in mid-April that the sustainability fund could be used to compensate for high fuel prices. At the time, Erkens could not immediately say whether or how the Netherlands would use the option. The decision has now been made.

Last month, Erkens already announced an extra fund for the sustainability of the fishing fleet, along with additional measures to somewhat dampen energy prices. That fund includes 25 million euros for entrepreneurs who fish for shrimp or flatfish. For shellfish fishermen, 10 million euros have been set aside to be spread over three years.