Chile has experienced violent protests as fishermen clashed with police over demands for greater fishing rights. Demonstrators were injured alongside police during confrontations in various regions, including Valparaíso, while blocking major highways. The protests call for the Senate to expedite a bill that would enhance artisanal fishing quotas, which is currently under review following House approval.
Recent protests in Chile have escalated as fishermen clashed with police over fishing quotas. The violence unfolded in Valparaíso and the regions of Coquimbo and Maule, where officers utilized tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds of protesters who were throwing stones and burning tires to demand increased catch rights. At least 15 officers and one protester sustained injuries during these confrontations.
In Valparaíso, police chief General Patricia Vasquez reported that seven officers were injured, with one requiring hospitalization for serious head injuries. The protests involved demonstrators blocking streets and setting tires ablaze, resulting in three arrests and damage to police vehicles. Similar unrest occurred in Maule, leading to eight officers being wounded and five protesters arrested.
Fishermen in Coquimbo also joined the demonstrations, blocking the Pan-American Highway to demand the passage of a legislative bill that would enhance rights for artisanal fishermen. They accuse the Senate of delaying the bill, which if approved, would allocate a larger portion of the catch quota for species such as hake.
The House of Representatives has already endorsed the bill, which is currently under review by the Senate Finance Committee. Miguel Angel Hernandez, president of the Federation of Artisanal Fishermen of Valparaíso, expressed urgency in having the bill passed, stating, “What we hope is that the bill is passed immediately.”
The recent clashes in Chile regarding fishing quotas highlight significant tensions between artisanal fishermen and law enforcement. Protesters, advocating for increased fishing rights, expressed frustration over legislative delays while the police maintained order amid violent confrontations. The future of the fishing rights bill remains uncertain as it awaits Senate approval, making the resolution of this conflict critical for the affected fishing communities.
Original Source: www.france24.com
