Violent Clashes Erupt in Chile Over Fishing Quotas

Protests in Chile over fishing quotas have led to violent confrontations between fishermen and police, resulting in injuries and arrests. Demonstrators are demanding legislative support for increased fishing rights, particularly concerning hake. The proposed bill has passed the House of Representatives and awaits Senate approval.

Recent protests in Chile have erupted over fishing quotas, resulting in significant clashes between fishermen and police. In Valparaíso, law enforcement utilized tear gas and water cannons as demonstrators engaged in violent actions, including stoning and barricading streets with burning tires. At least 15 officers and one protester were reported injured during these confrontations.

Police Chief General Patricia Vasquez indicated that seven officers sustained injuries, with one requiring hospitalization due to serious head trauma. The protests saw barricades made from flaming tires, while police faced aggressive tactics from demonstrators, prompting them to label the events as “very violent.” In the Maule region, additional clashes resulted in injuries to eight officers and the arrest of five individuals.

Protesters in the Coquimbo region demanded legislative action on a bill aimed at increasing artisanal fishing rights. They blocked the Pan-American Highway with flaming debris, expressing frustrations over the Senate’s delay in addressing the bill that seeks to enhance the catch quotas for local fishers, particularly for hake. The proposal has been passed by the House of Representatives and remains under review by the Senate Finance Committee.

Miguel Angel Hernandez, the president of the Federation of Artisanal Fishermen of Valparaíso, voiced concerns that the Senate is attempting to diminish the allocation for artisanal fishers. He expressed the hope that the bill will be expedited for passage to meet the needs of the fishing community.

The protests in Chile highlight the growing tensions regarding fishing quotas and the demands of artisanal fishermen for greater rights. The violent clashes resulted in numerous injuries and arrests, underscoring the urgency behind the legislative actions being pursued. The hope within the fishing community is for swift passage of the bill that aims to secure increased quotas and rights for artisanal fishermen, reflecting their critical role in the local economy.

Original Source: www.france24.com