The minister confirmed Jersey had begun offering direct financial support to fishers for the first time – similar to aid available to farmers – but added the industry needed to evolve to survive.
He said: “I think it’s unlikely we can just rely on catching fish and selling it.
“We may need to find ways to add value – perhaps through processing or developing a ‘quality Jersey’ brand.”
He added the government was working with the fishing industry and Environment Minister Steve Luce on a long-term plan to make the sector more sustainable.
Gabby Mason, from the Jersey Fishermen’s Association, agreed there was still reason for optimism, saying the industry “could be sustainable into the future” if it adapted and found new solutions.
She urged the public to support local fisheries, even by “switching one item a week”, which she said could create a “massive chain reaction of good”.
Mason also noted that changing sea temperatures could bring new opportunities, with warmer waters attracting new species that “could give the industry a stronger, more sustainable future.”
She highlighted tuna as an example, saying it “is now proving to be a sustainable source of food and could make a real difference for local boats if we adapt our policies to catch it”.