Chilean fishermen clash with police after protest

SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — Small-scale fishermen in Chile have clashed with police after a protest in the port of Valparaiso.

Fishermen marched to the Congress on Wednesday to demand improved working conditions and an increase in the amount of cuttlefish they’re allowed to catch.

Police broke up the march using water cannons and tear gas. The protesters responded by hurling stones.

Local Radio Bio Bio reports that at least two police officers were injured. Valparaiso’s provincial governor says the protest was not authorized by officials.

Small-scale fishermen have also protested a law that they say endangers their livelihood by setting fishing quotas and giving preferential treatment to big fishing companies.

Chile has more than 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers) of coast and fishing is among its top industries.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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