 Mr Borg chatted with fishermen in Aberystwyth harbour |
European fisheries Commissioner Joe Borg has seen for himself how vast amounts of funding is helping some of Wales' poorest parts. Some �16m of EU money has been allocated to the Welsh fishing industry to boost business, increase skills and help local communties.
During his Aberystwyth visit on Friday, Mr Borg also spoke to students at the university where he studied law.
He also met Welsh Environment Minister Carwyn Jones.
The commissioner also saw how the Objective 1 EU money had helped the Cardigan Bay Fishermen's Association (CBFA) employ a development officer.
Mr Borg said: "I am looking forward to seeing how this money is being used in Ceredigion, and also how it is helping to promote the local fishing industry.
 |  The Cardigan Bay Fisherman's Association project is a good example of fisherman working together  |
"The Cardigan Bay Fisherman's Association project is a good example of fisherman working together to secure their own future.
Mr Borg, 52, from Malta, added: "Some �16m is currently available to help develop the fishing industry across Wales."
Since employing a development officer, CBFA membership has risen by 144%.
There are now 44 fishing vessels under 12 metres operating between Cardigan, Barmouth, Tywyn, Aberdyfi, in Gwynedd, Borth, Aberystwyth, Aberaeron, Newquay, Llangranog and Aberporth, in Ceredigion.
The association estimates that the 44 vessels provide employment for between 70 and 90 fishermen.
CBFA's development officer, Tony Daniel, said:"The creation of the development officer posts, made possible by Objective 1 fisheries funding, has already made a great difference to the Welsh fishing industry.
"Fishermen seeking an improved future are being brought together through the associations and are working together like never before. At last everyone in the industry is pulling in the same direction."
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