Parliament voiced its support today for a ban on the trade in endangered animals, such as bluefin tuna and polar bears, and products derived from these animals.
However, MEPs called for financial compensation for the tuna fishing sector that would be affected.
In today's resolution, adopted by show of hands, MEPs urge the Commission and the EU Member States to ban the international trade in bluefin tuna subject to the following conditions:
- A general derogation for domestic trade, allowing traditional coastal fishing to continue
- EU financial support for seafarers and vessel owners affected
- Tighter controls and tougher penalties to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing
The resolution comes ahead of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), that takes place in Doha on 13-25 March. Parliament's Environment Committee will be sending a delegation to the conference.
The Council is expected to take a decision on the EU's position on 26 February.
