European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, has indicated that Italy can tap into the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) to compensate fishers in Lampedusa whose nets and gear are damaged by sunken migrant smuggling vessels. In a written answer to a parliamentary question from S&D MEP Giuseppe Lupo, Kadis acknowledged the problem but stressed that the Commission has not been formally notified of the incidents and lacks sufficient information to assess their impact.
The answer comes after Lupo's question, submitted on 25 February 2026, which cited an ANSA report from 24 February 2026 describing how Lampedusan fishing boats have been hauling up derelict migrant boats in their nets, causing gear damage, loss of working days, and economic losses. Lupo had asked what EU instruments could compensate fishers and whether the Commission would push for a seabed clean-up programme.
Kadis confirmed that the EMFAF can support measures to protect aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems, including actions under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). Under specific conditions, the fund can also provide compensation for temporary cessation of fishing activities. However, he made clear that it is up to the Italian authorities to assess the situation and mobilise EMFAF resources in line with Italy's national EMFAF programme. The Commission offered to support Italy in implementation.
On the question of a dedicated seabed clean-up programme, Kadis stated that no further EU programmes are envisaged, as Member States are already obliged under the MSFD to protect the marine environment and achieve good environmental status. This effectively rules out a new EU-led initiative, placing responsibility on Italy to act within existing frameworks.
The answer is largely procedural and avoids concrete commitments. It does not announce new funding, targets, or deadlines, instead referring to existing instruments and national competence. The policy orientation is cautious: the Commission acknowledges the issue but defers to member state action, signalling no immediate EU-level intervention.
The ball is now in Italy's court. The Italian authorities may submit a request to modify their EMFAF programme to include compensation or clean-up measures. The Commission will likely await such a request before taking further steps. No timeline is given.