A delegation of representatives from the international fishing sector have met with the new European Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, to discuss pressing issues affecting the industry.
The representatives from Europêche and EAPO expressed their concern over a one size fits all approach to new Commissioner Karmenu Vella.
President of Europêche, Javier Garat, said: “We also highlighted the good status of many stocks, especially in the Northeast Atlantic who have seen their biggest recovery in the last 10 years. We have come a long way and we need to continue this positive momentum."
The meeting resulted in a consensus that there must be engagement with all stakeholders including scientists, the fishing sector and decision makers, highlighting the need for proportionate and suitable legislation to be decided at the right level.
Europêche said that the Commission needs to take into account all type of fleets and gears, both small and large. All of them play their role in providing healthy food to the consumers and creating employment and wealth in fishing dependent areas.
Among other things going forward, it also wants the Commission to avoid blanket bans such as deep sea trawling and gillnetting, a ban on driftnets and for the fins-attached policy for sharks. It said there are better alternatives with a smaller impact on fishing communities.
The organisation expressed its dedication to working closely with the Commissioner to make sure that upcoming legislation such as the landing obligation and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive are implemented in the right way.
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