The European Commission has adopted a proposal for fishing opportunities for 2020 for the commercially most important fish stocks in the Baltic Sea.
Based on the latest available scientific advice, the Commission proposes to increase fishing opportunities for herring in the Gulf of Riga and maintain the same levels for salmon in the Gulf of Finland. For remaining stocks covered by the proposal, the Commission proposes to decrease fishing opportunities.
Karmenu Vella, Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries said, "Despite efforts by our fishermen and authorities, the situation of fish stocks in the Baltic is serious, particularly for eastern Baltic cod and western herring. In line with scientific advice we propose a prudent package to ensure that sustainable fisheries can continue in the Baltic Sea over time."
The proposed total allowable catches are based on scientific advice from the International Council on the Exploration of the Seas and follow the Baltic multiannual management plan adopted in 2016 by the European Parliament and the Council.
Stock levels have improved in recent years in the Baltic Sea. However, scientists have discovered that the situation is less stable than previously thought. Action is therefore needed to rebuild all stocks in line with the maximum sustainable yield.
The proposal is part of the European Union's approach to adjust the levels of fishing to long-term sustainability targets, or maximum sustainable yield by 2020 as agreed by the Council and the European Parliament in the Common Fisheries Policy.
The Council will now examine the Commission’s proposal, in view of adopting it during a ministerial meeting on 14 - 15 October.
