France Enforces Historic Fishing Ban in Bay of Biscay to Protect Dolphins

The month-long ban, first since World War II, faces backlash from the fishing industry fearing significant financial losses.

France has imposed a temporary ban on almost all commercial fishing in the Bay of Biscay to protect dolphins, starting from Monday and running until 20 February.
The ban, the first of its kind since World War II, affects fishing grounds off France's Atlantic coast and applies to both French and foreign fishermen.
An estimated 9,000 dolphins die each year in the bay after being accidentally caught in fishing gear, according to French marine experts CIEM.
The fishing industry has criticized the ban, fearing significant financial losses, with some estimating millions of euros in lost revenue.
The French government has promised compensation for the losses, with up to 75% of losses to be covered and paid as quickly as possible.