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News desk BALEARIC leader Jaume Matas will seek the collaboration of the central government to boost the nautical sector. He made the announcement during the opening of the 21st International Boat Show at the Old Wharf in Palma yesterday. He said it was a strategic sector for the future, providing work all year round. It also protects the environment, he said. These three aspects justify special recognition for the sector's needs, he said. Mayor of Palma Catalina Cirer agreed with Matas, and stressed the promotion Palma has received from being named sailing headquarters for Madrid's Olympic candidacy for 2012.





Juan Verger Pocovi, chairman of the Port Authority, pointed out that although Balearics is the region with most yachts and charter boats registered, it is now facing stiff competition from other Spanish regions which have invested heavily in the sector.

The nautical industry in the Balearics provides 8'000 direct and indirect jobs, more than 25 percent of all jobs in industry.
There are 19'000 berths in 60 ports, which is considered insufficient to meet demands.