Fisherman 'pawn' in Spain's fight

Spanish fishing boats sit moored in La Linea de Concepcion, Spain, in front of Gibraltar. Photo / AP

The Spanish skipper of the fishing boat at the centre of a diplomatic spat threatening to rupture relations between Spain and Britain has said he feels "used" by his Government.

"I am a pawn in the hands of politicians using me to make a point that has little to do with my right to earn a living as a fisherman," said Francisco Gomez Elias, captain of the Divina Providencia.

For 20 years, Gomez has trawled for shellfish around the Rock, setting out at 5am from La Linea in his boat flying the Spanish flag.

A fleet of 20 boats has dwindled over the years to just his. On July 30, Gibraltar authorities sank 70 concrete blocks to form an artificial reef to the west of the airport, putting a final stop to all but line fishing. Ostensibly to promote marine life, the reef prompted an immediate response from Spain, which does not recognise Gibraltar's right to territorial waters, and led to queues of up to seven hours as border guards carried out searches in retaliation.

The row over fishing rights has been escalating since Fabian Picardo, Gibraltar's Chief Minister, revoked an agreement to allow Spanish vessels to fish off the Rock.

Gomez found himself at the centre of the spat after his refusal to give up his fishing spot meant he was frequently seen off by patrol boats.

The 50-year-old supports his wife and three adult children, all of whom are unemployed, and a young grandchild.

"I am just trying to make a living and now I am having to fish further away where I can't find the same catch and spend more on fuel so it just isn't economically viable.

"I feel my right to work is being violated but I certainly don't want thousands of other people to have their working life affected over it and that is what is happening with the queues at the border," he said.

"As for Spain trying to claim Gibraltar back? That would be the worst thing for this area. Without Gibraltar, La Linea is nothing."