The coastal states negotiations on blue whiting and Atlanto-Scandian herring have just concluded in London, with more positive results for the UK.
A Total Allowable Catch (TAC) of 643,000 tonnes for blue whiting was agreed (of which the UK quota will be approximately 22,986 tonnes), along with a TAC of 619,000 tonnes for Atlanto-Scandian herring (UK quota approximately 8,827 tonnes). The EU has reduced Norwegian access for blue whiting from 68 to 64%.
Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon said:
“After a succession of good results for British fisherman the UK has secured yet another positive agreement on the management of stocks for North Atlantic blue whiting and Atlanto-Scandian herring. This is good news for both the industry and the health of our seas.
“I’m disappointed and frustrated that once again the Faroe Islands has pulled out of an existing international agreement, this time on Atlanto-Scandian herring because they want a bigger quota. This further demonstrates their irresponsible attitude to international fisheries management and could risk damaging the future sustainability of this stock.”
A meeting will be held in June to discuss advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) on the long-term management plans.
