Press releases

Working conditions in fisheries: key agreement signed by social partners

Today, representatives of the European Union's employers and trade unions in the sea fisheries sector signed an agreement to ensure that fishermen have decent working conditions on board fishing ...

20 May: A European Maritime Day to celebrate our seas and oceans

The European Union celebrates European Maritime Day 2012 across events in Member States, on May 20, 2012. The main event will be the European Maritime Day Conference which this year will be held in Gothenburg, Sweden, on 21-22 May, 2012, with almost 1,000 participants.

Bluefin tuna: Commissioner Damanaki expects full compliance during 2012 fishing season (16 May - 14 June)

The European Commission is ready for the 2012 bluefin tuna fishing campaign. In close collaboration with the Member States concerned, all necessary measures are being taken to ensure that the EU fishing fleet fully respects the rules during the main fishing season.

Challenges and opportunities of maritime and coastal tourism: public consultation launched today

Tourism is undoubtedly an economic backbone of coastal regions. At present about 2.36 million people are employed in the coastal tourism sector, representing 1.1% total EU employment.

EU to press for improved fisheries management in the Mediterranean and Black Seas

The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) will meet in Morocco, Marrakesh from 14 to 19 May 2012. The European Commission represents the EU at the meeting.

Preparation of Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 14 – 15 May 2012

The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of May 2012 will take place in Brussels on 14-15 May 2012, under the presidency of Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries Ms Mette Gjerskov....

Common Fisheries Policy: What future for Aquaculture?

Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries together with Nicolaus Berlakovich, Austrian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management are hosting a high-level conference on the future of European Aquaculture.

Commissioner Damanaki presents Common Fisheries Policy Reform in Lithuania

European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki will visit Lithuania on May 9 & 10, 2012.

Commissioner Damanaki presents Common Fisheries Policy Reform in Estonia

European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, will be in Tallin, Estonia, on May 3, 2012 to discuss the on-going reform of the Common Fisheries Policy with the Estonian government.

A stable step towards sustainable fishing in the Indian Ocean

Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) 16th Annual Meeting (22-26 April 2012, Australia)

Preparation of Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 26-27 April 2012

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on 26 and 27 April. The meeting will be chaired by Mrs Mette Gjerskov, Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries....

Maria Damanaki at European Seafood Exposition: Driving the Reform forward

Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime affairs and Fisheries, will visit the European Seafood Exposition at the Brussels Exhibition Centre, Heysel, on 25 April. During her visit, the Commissioner will participate in the debate "Netgains. How can EU funds support a sustainable seafood supply" with the Alliance for CFP reform. The debate is open to the press.

Fisheries: closure of the Mauritania pelagic fishery

The European Commission has decided to close the pelagic fishery by EU vessels in the waters of Mauritania as of today, as the annual EU quota set at 252,654 tonnes is nearly exhausted.

Commissioner Maria Damanaki meets Norwegian Minister for Fisheries, Lisbeth Berg-Hansen

Today, Commissioner Maria Damanaki met with the Norwegian Minister for Fisheries and Coastal Affairs, Lisbeth Berg-Hansen.

Commissioner Damanaki in Rabat to launch the process of negotiations for a new EU-Morocco fisheries agreement protocol

Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, was in Rabat, Morocco, on 20-21 April to launch the the process of negotiations for a new EU-Morocco fisheries agreement protocol.

Commissioner Maria Damanaki visits Latvia

Commissioner Maria Damanaki, in charge of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, will visit Latvia on 19 April 2012.

Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC): no progress on conservation of tropical tunas

Measures for enhanced monitoring are a step in the right direction, but, overall, the 8th plenary session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) falls short in guaranteeing sustainable exploitation of tuna stocks: the European Commission will continue to work for the adoption of stronger conservation at the next WCPFC plenary session.

Cooperation in the Black Sea – Commissioner Damanaki in Romania and Bulgaria

Commissioner Maria Damanaki, in charge of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, visits Romania and Bulgaria on 29 and 30 March, respectively, to discuss maritime and fisheries-related issues and cooperation in the Black Sea basin.

Commissioner Damanaki to host conference on Maritime Spatial Planning

On 26 March in Brussels, Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, will host an international conference on how maritime spatial planning can contribute to boosting growth.

What are your views on the proposed European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF)?

On 14 March, the Commission presented a Staff Working Paper on the "Common Strategic Framework" (CSF) which sets the main investment priorities and key actions for programmes for the 2014-2020 period. 

The EFCA adopts its Annual Report for 2011

The EFCA has adopted its annual report for 2011 at the meeting of the Administrative Board held on 15 of March.

Preparation of Agriculture and Fisheries Council, 19-20 March 2012

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on 19 and 20 March. It will be chaired by Mrs Mette Gjerskov, Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries....

Commission proposes one programming tool for all structural funds

Following the Cohesion Policy proposals of 6th October, and in order to help Member States with their preparations for the next programming period the Commission has today presented the "Common ...

Commission adopts quota deduction guidelines

Today, the European Commission has adopted the detailed rules for deduction of fishing quotas of Member states who have overfished their quotas.

Registration for European Maritime Day 2012 is now open!

European Maritime Day 2012 will be organised in Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden on May 21 and 22, 2012. It is the first time Maritime Day is organised in Scandinavia and in the North Sea area.

Questions and Answers - Emergency measures to remove haddock from catch composition rules in West of Scotland

What did the catch composition rules intend to achieve?
The catch composition rules were put in place in 2009 to reduce fishing mortality by preventing a targeted fishery for cod, haddock, and whiting. The catches of all three stocks had substantially reduced, and they were considered to have collapsed. The rules were to allow for stocks to recover, but only the haddock stock has improved since.

Fisheries: Commission acts to reduce discards in the West of Scotland

The European Commission today used emergency powers, under Article 7 of Council Regulation (EC) No 2371/2002 to reduce and avoid excessive discarding of haddock in the West of Scotland.

New Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the EU and Mauritius

The European Union and Mauritius initialed today a new Fishery Partnership Agreement (FPA) and Protocol.

Joint Statement of Commissioner Damanaki and Norwegian Minister Berg-Hansen on mackerel

Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, on behalf of the European Union, and Lisbehth Berg-Hansen, Minister of Fisheries, on behalf of Norway, have expressed their disappointment and grave concern following the inconclusive outcome of the meeting on mackerel fishery in the North-East Atlantic, held in Reykjavik from 14 to 16 February 2012 between the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands (the so-called coastal states).

New Protocol to EU - Guinea Bissau Fisheries Partnership Agreement

The European Union and Guinea Bissau agreed today on a new Protocol to implement the EU/Guinea Bissau Fisheries Partnership Agreement.

Fisheries: catch limits agreed for jack mackerel in the South Pacific

The European Commission is generally satisfied with the outcome of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) Third Preparatory Conference, which just ended in Santiago, Chile.

New Protocol to Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the EU and Greenland

The EU and Greenland reached agreement today on a new Protocol to implement the EU/Greenland Fisheries Partnership Agreement. This Protocol will enter into force on 1 January 2013 and will be valid for a period of 3 years.

Fisheries: Commission proposes measures against countries which allow unsustainable fishing

The European Commission has adopted a proposal for a Regulation which would authorise the Commission to impose a range of measures against third countries that allow unsustainable fishing.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of December 2011

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on 15 and 16 December. It will be chaired by Mr Marek Sawicki, Polish Minister for Agriculture & Rural Development....

Fisheries: Commission welcomes European Court of Auditors report on fishing overcapacity

Today, the European Commission welcomed the report, by the European Court of Auditors, evaluating whether EU measures have contributed to adapting the capacity of EU fishing fleets to available fishing opportunities.

European Commission welcomes adoption of the 2011 UN resolution for Sustainable Fisheries

The European Commission welcomes the adoption of the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on sustainable fisheries.

Fisheries: 2012 fishing possibilities agreed between the EU and Norway

A new agreement for the management of shared fish stocks in the North Sea has been concluded between the European Union and Norway after a week of negotiations.

A new European Fund for the EU's Maritime and Fisheries Policies

The European Commission has proposed a new fund for the EU's maritime and fisheries policies for the period 2014-2020: the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF)....

Questions and answers on the new European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF)

What is the EMFF? EMFF is the new financial instrument that will help deliver the growth, jobs and sustainability objectives of the reformed Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and support the implementation of the EU Integrated ...

Fisheries: Commission proposes reduced fishing opportunities for the Black Sea for 2012

The European Commission has presented its proposal for fishing opportunities for fish stocks in the Black Sea for 2012.

Maritime policy: new strategy for growth and jobs in the Atlantic Ocean area

On Monday 28 November, in Lisbon, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, will present a new maritime strategy for growth and jobs in the Atlantic Ocean area, just ...

Maritime policy: new strategy for growth and jobs in the Atlantic Ocean area

European Commission - Press release Brussels, 25 November 2011 – On Monday 28 November, in Lisbon, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, will present a new maritime strategy for growth and jobs in the Atlantic Ocean area, just ...

Commissioner Damanaki in Sweden to discuss reform of the Common Fisheries Policy

European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki will be in Stockholm on November 23, 2011 to present the reform of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy and discuss specific aspects of the Commission's proposal with Swedish stakeholders.

Satellite data to support bluefin tuna protection

A new habitat model developed by JRC scientists allows the potential presence of bluefin tuna to be tracked through daily updated maps, helping to protect endangered stocks and fight illegal fishing.

Fisheries: Commission proposes full ban on shark finning at sea

The European Commission proposed today to forbid, with no exemptions, the practice of 'shark finning' aboard fishing vessels. Shark finning is the practice of cutting off the fins of sharks ...

2012 guide prices for fisheries products: increases for most products

The European Commission tabled today its annual proposal on next year’s guide prices for fresh and frozen fisheries products, and the EU producer price for tuna processing.

EU promotes ambitious plans to protect tunas and swordfish in the Atlantic and Mediterranean

The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) is holding its 22nd Regular Meeting in Istanbul from 11 to 19 of November 2011.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of November 2011

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 14 November (starting at 10.00 am). It will be chaired by Mr Marek Sawicki, Polish Minister for Agriculture & Rural Development.

Commission proposes fishing opportunities, for 2012, for fish stocks under international agreements

The European Commission today presented its proposal for fishing opportunities, for 2012, for fish stocks managed together with third countries such as Norway or through Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) across the world's oceans.

Commission welcomes progress to tackle illegal fishing and protect marine ecosystems in the Antarctic

The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) concluded its annual meeting in Hobart, Tasmania. Under the leadership of the EU, represented by the European Commission, CCAMLR adopted important measures to fight illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, to develop Marine Protected Areas and to enhance the management of krill fisheries.

Commitment of Comoros islands to fight Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing

A delegation of the European Commission and a delegation of the Union of Comoros met within the framework of the Joint Committee to discuss issues linked to the implementation of the Fisheries partnership agreement between the EU and the Union of Comoros.

The CFCA adopts its annual work programme and elects its new Chairman

The CFCA has adopted its sixth work programme for 2012, the first one within the mandate of his new Executive Director and has elected a new Chairman. Moreover, the budget adopted in the meeting for 2012 is of €9,31million, subject to the definitive adoption of the EU Budget for 2012 by the Budgetary Authority in the coming weeks.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of October 2011

The Agriculture and Fisheries Council will meet in Luxemburg on 20 (starting at 10.00) and 21 October, under the presidency of Mr Marek Sawicki, Polish Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development....

Partial progress on conservation measures for the South East Atlantic

Under the leadership of the EU Delegation, the South East Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (SEAFO) adopted a number of conservation measures at its 8th Annual session held in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10 – 14 October.

Commissioner Damanaki in Norway for meetings with national authorities and the fishing industry

Commissioner Maria Damanaki, in charge of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, will meet Norvegian ministers and stakeholders during a two day visit to Norway starting Monday 17 October.

Commission hosts high-level meeting on maritime affairs and fisheries in the Black Sea

European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki is hosting a high-level brainstorming meeting in Brussels on Friday 14 October on increased cooperation on fisheries and maritime affairs in the Black Sea area.

European Union ratifies Convention establishing a Fisheries Organisation in the South Pacific

The European Union has ratified the Convention setting up a new Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (RFMO), which, once it enters into force, will govern the fishing activities in the high seas of the South Pacific.

Renewal of fisheries agreement EU/Guinea Bissau

The European Commission has today adopted formal proposals for a new one-year protocol to the fisheries agreement with Guinea Bissau, agreed by the two parties on 16 June 2011.

Fisheries: Commission seeks Italy's compliance with Court ruling on illegal use of drift-nets in the Mediterranean

The European Commission calls on Italy to take measures and comply with an October 2009 Court of Justice ruling on Italy's continued illegal use of drift-nets....

EU law: Commission acts to ensure that European legislation is fully and properly implemented

In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against 27 Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law.

Fisheries: Commission proposes fishing opportunities for 2012 for EU fish stocks in the Atlantic and North Sea

European Commission presented today its first proposal for 2012 fishing opportunities for certain stocks in the Atlantic and the North Sea....

The EU pleased with NAFO’s continued commitment to the conservation of international fish stocks and the protection of Atlantic ecosystems

Thanks to the continued commitment of the European Union to follow scientific advice and its close cooperation with partner countries, the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO) adopted science-based, precautionary measures...

Commissioner Maria Damanaki to promote the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy in Ireland

Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, will visit Dublin and Galway from 22 to 23 September 2011 to present and discuss with Irish stakeholders the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), proposed by the Commission in July.

Fisheries: Commission proposes fishing opportunities in the Baltic Sea for 2012

The European Commission today tabled its proposal on fishing opportunities in the Baltic Sea for 2012. Based on scientific advice, the Commission proposes to increase TACs (total allowable ...

The CFCA coordinates a joint deployment plan for pelagic fisheries in Western Waters of the North East Atlantic

The Community Fisheries Control Agency (CFCA) has just started up a joint deployment plan (JDP) for pelagic fisheries in Western Waters of the North East Atlantic.

European Commissioner Maria Damanaki visits the USA

The European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki is currently visiting the USA. She will be in Washington DC until 9 September 2011.

Fisheries: European Union and United States agree to strengthen cooperation to combat illegal fishing

A historic statement pledging bilateral cooperation to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, known as IUU fishing, will be signed today in Washington by Maria Damanaki, ...

Commission hosts seminar on state of Europe's Fish Stocks

On 8 September, the European Commission will host a one-day seminar on the state of fish stocks in European waters. The seminar aims to have open discussions on the latest scientific research on EU fisheries and how it should be applied in practice for the 2012 fishing season and in the long term.

The European Commission proposes a new Regulation for the sustainable management of Baltic salmon

The European Commission has tabled its proposal for a new Regulation of the Council and the European Parliament establishing a multiannual plan for the sustainable management of Baltic salmon. ...

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of July 2011

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Tuesday 19 July (starting at 10 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mr Marek SAWICKY, Polish Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development....

European Commission: a fisheries policy for the future

In its proposals for a major reform of the EU Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), the European Commission has set out a radical approach to fisheries management in Europe....

Questions and Answers on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy

The overall objective of the Commission's proposals for a modern and simpler Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is to make fishing sustainable - environmentally, economically and socially....

New Executive Director of Community Fisheries Control Agency appointed

The Administrative Board of the Community Fisheries Control Agency, meeting in Vigo today, has announced the appointment of Mr Pascal Savouret as Executive Director.

European Commission proposes higher anchovy catches in Bay of Biscay

The European Commission today proposed fishing opportunities for anchovy fishing in the Bay of Biscay for the season 1 July 2011 - 30 June 2012.

"Transparent and accurate labelling and safeguarding wild resources from overexploitation go hand in hand", says Commissioner Damanaki

Commissioner Damanaki took part today in the public hearing on "Traceability of fish products in the EU market: rules of origin and labelling", in the European Parliament.

The EU Fisheries Council meets on 2012 fishing opportunities

Today, the EU Ministers met in the framework of the Fisheries Council, in Luxembourg to discuss the Commission's Communication on the Consultation on Fishing Opportunities for 2012, published on 25 May.

Preparation of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, Luxembourg, 28 June 2011

The Agriculture and Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Tuesday 28 June, under the presidency of Mr Sandor Fazekas, Hungarian Minister of Rural Development. Maritime Affairs & Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki, ...

Fisheries: new reports confirm need for reform of EU fisheries policy

Two recent reports by the European Commission add further weight to calls for significant structural change within the EU fish catching sector and a far reaching reform of the Common Fisheries ...

"No fish left on the plate” – Why a radical reform of the Common Fisheries Policy is needed – 22 June

On June 22, the 'Fish for the Future' group in the European Parliament is organising a lunchtime presentation to explain the need for urgent reform of the Common Fisheries Policy. The Conference aims to raise awareness about the urgent need for a radical Common Fisheries Reform, ahead of the Commission's forthcoming proposal.

Renewal of fisheries agreement protocol EU/Guinea Bissau

The European Union initialled today a new one-year protocol to the fisheries agreement with Guinea Bissau.

Commission closes bluefin fishery by Spanish trawlers

Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries decided to close the bluefin tuna fishery to Spanish purse seiners in the Mediterranean and Eastern Atlantic on 9 June 2011 due to the exhaustion of their quotas. Spain was informed of this decision which is to become effective as of 17.00 today (Friday, 10th of June 2011).

CCAMLR Scientific Scholarship Scheme

Scholarships available to early career scientist to participate in the scientific work of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.

Accord de Partenariat Pêche UE/Mozambique – Renouvellement du protocole pour 3 ans

Le nouveau protocole sera d'application  à partir du 1er janvier 2012, à l'expiration de celui qui est encore en cours de validité, pour une période de 3 ans.

What fish is on your plate? Commission scientists publish report on how new technologies can tackle fishing fraud

Low-cost catfish fillets sold as expensive sole fillets or cod caught in the North Sea but declared as originating ...

Fishing opportunities in EU waters in 2012: getting the balance right to reduce overfishing

Today the European Commission published its report on progress achieved in the Common Fisheries Policy over the last few years and its suggestions for fishing opportunities in EU waters in 2012....

Reducing plastic marine litter in Mediterranean: a "Fishing for Litter" campaign in France

The pollution of our seas and oceans from marine litter - especially plastic litter - has taken alarming dimensions.

European Commission confirms inspections to verify the enforcement of the driftnet ban in Italy

The Commission has conducted inspections in Italy on 17-21 May 2010, 14-18 June 2010, 4-8 April 2011 and 9-13 May 2011.

Bluefin tuna fishing campaign 2011 – Commissioner Damanaki sends a letter to EU Ministers on Libya

Statement by Commissioner Maria Damanaki:

Today, I sent a letter to all relevant EU Ministers, pointing out that the Libyan fishing and inspection plans have not been endorsed by the Compliance Committee of ICCAT, the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas, which is responsible for the conservation of tunas and tuna-like species in the Atlantic Ocean and its adjacent seas.

Significant Decisions in General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (9-14 May 2011, Rome)

The 35th session of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), took place between 9 and 14 May 2011 at the FAO headquarters in Rome. It was attended by delegates from 22 Members, as well as observers from non-GFCM Member nations and representatives from intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations.

A European Maritime Day that Puts People First

Every year on May 20, European Maritime Day is celebrated across the European Union to showcase the importance of the sea and oceans for our everyday life. This year, Gdańsk (Poland) will host the 4th edition of the European ...

Bluefin tuna: Commissioner Damanaki expects full compliance during 2011 fishing season (15 May-15 June)

Commissioner for maritime affairs and fisheries, Maria Damanaki today said that she expects Member States to take all necessary measures to ensure full compliance by their vessels during the main fishing season for bluefin tuna, which started on 15 May.

Commissioner Damanaki meets fisheries Ministers from 17 non-EU countries

Today, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki is meeting Ministers from several third countries with which the EU currently has fisheries partnership agreements. This is the first time such a meeting is convened, and was deemed necessary by the Commissioner to discuss the future of such agreements in view of the upcoming reform of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy.

Renewed EU fisheries partnership agreement with São Tomé and Príncipe signed today

At the margins of the Ministerial meeting on the Future of fisheries partnership agreements, Commissioner Maria Damanaki, Mr Tamás Bardócz, Hungarian Director General for fisheries on behalf of the EU Presidency, and Mr Agostino Quaresma Dos Santos Fernandes, Minister of Planning and Development for São Tomé and Príncipe, signed the renewal of the partnership agreement.

Commissioner Maria Damanaki at European Seafood Exposition: Europeans want better access to more sustainable fish

Today, Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime affairs and fisheries, will visit the European Seafood Exposition at the Brussels Exhibition Centre, Heysel. During her visit, the Commissioner will participate in a roundtable discussion with WWF/Industry Alliance for CFP reform.

Commissioner Damanaki debates with fishing industry the future of discards

Today, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki is meeting representatives of the fishing industry and other stakeholders to discuss what can be done to stop discarding of fish. Discarding is the practice of throwing back unwanted fish to the sea.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of April 2011

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Thursday 14 April (starting at 11 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mr Sándor Fazekas, Hungarian Minister for Rural Development....

Fisheries: The EU "zero tolerance" campaign against illegal fishing gets tougher

Getting away with fishing illegally will become much more difficult for fishermen, as the EU's new system for fisheries control is now fully operational. With the adoption of detailed rules on how to carry out controls ...

Fisheries: Questions and answers on the new EU fisheries control rules

The credibility of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) depends on an effective enforcement and application of the agreed rules. With the adoption of detailed rules to apply the EU Fisheries Control Regulation, the ...

Extraordinary European Parliament PECH Committee meeting: "structured dialogue" with the Commission on the political and legislative priorities for 2012

Extracts from the intervention of Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries at the extraordinary meeting of the European Parliament PECH Committee, dedicated to the so-called "structured dialogue" with the Commission, on the political and legislative priorities for 2012: reform of the European Common Fisheries Policy (discussion in College on 13 July 2011),  long term management plans and response to the nuclear accident in Japan. 

Bluefin tuna: Commissioner Damanaki wants Libyan fishery temporarily suspended

Given the current exceptional situation in Libya, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki has expressed serious doubts about the capacity of the Libyan authorities to ensure full compliance with and enforcement of the measures established by ICCAT for the purposes of conserving bluefin tuna.

Fisheries: results of Indian Ocean Tuna Commission meeting

The 15th Plenary Session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka from 18 to 22 March. A three-day meeting of the IOTC Compliance Committee had preceded the plenary. The Plenary outcome was rather disappointing for the EU. While...

Mediterranean maritime cooperation: joining forces to promote maritime growth

The European Commission, the European Investment Bank and the International Maritime Organization today launched a study under the Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP) on maritime cooperation ...

Commission welcomes agreement reached on sustainable management of redfish in the Irminger Sea (NE Atlantic)

After more than a decade of ineffective measures to ensure the sustainability of the redfish fisheries in the Irminger Sea (waters between Iceland and Greenland in the NEAFC Convention Area), the Coastal States (Faroe Islands, Greenland and Iceland) along with the European Union and Norway reached agreement in Reykjavik on 17 March on multi-annual interim conservation and management measures for deep and shallow pelagic redfish in the Irminger Sea. These measures, based on an EU proposal, will be applied with immediate effect.

Community Fisheries Control Agency adopts annual report 2010 and plans ahead for 2012-2016

The Community Fisheries Control Agency (CFCA) based in Vigo, Spain, adopted its annual report for 2010 at the meeting of its Administrative Board held on 15 March.

Fisheries: EU initials extension of the fisheries protocol with Morocco

The European Commission has initialled a 12-month extension of the protocol under the Fisheries Partnership Agreement (FPA) with Morocco. The level of fishing opportunities for EU vessels and the corresponding financial contribution to Morocco will remain the same as in the 2007 protocol, which expired on February 27, 2011.  This one year period will be used to asses the data and information obtained from the Moroccan authorities about the regional impacts of the protocol and to define next steps.

Aquaculture: Commissioner Damanaki meets Ministers from five land-locked Member States to discuss the future of freshwater aquaculture

Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, received on Monday a visit of the Ministers for Agriculture of the Czech Republic Ivan Fuksa, Hungary Sandor Fazekas, Slovakia Zsolt Simon, Austria Nikolaus Berlakivich as well as the Director for international affairs of Luxembourg Frank Schmidt.

Commission proposal to extend fisheries partnership agreement protocol with Morroco for one year

The Commission adopted on 11 February, a proposal for a draft negotiating mandate, addressed to the Council for a transitional, time-limited renewal of the Fisheries Parrtnership Agreement Protocol. 

Reforming Europe's fisheries policy: Commissioner Damanaki welcomes contribution by WWF/Industry Alliance

After meeting the WWF – Industry Alliance at Europe House in London today, EU Fisheries Commissioner Damanaki said:

"The FAO annual report on fisheries published on Monday shows once again that overfishing must stop and that we need a real reform if we want to make our policies sustainable.

Commission welcomes recovery measures for South Pacific jack mackerel fishery

The European Commission welcomes the decision by the 2nd Preparatory Conference for a South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization which concluded Friday last week in Cali, Colombia, to make a substantial reduction in the TAC for jack mackerel.

EU initials new fisheries protocol with Cape Verde

On 22 December, the European Commission on behalf of the European Union initialled a new three-year protocol under the Fisheries Partnership Agreement (FPA) with Cape Verde setting fishing possibilities for EU vessels in Cape Verde's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), along with other conditions. The new protocol foresees a total EU financial contribution of EUR 435,000, and will come into force when the present protocol expires, on 1 September.

Commission: Europe needs to move forward on Maritime Spatial Planning

Today, the European Commission published a Communication entitled '"Maritime Spatial Planning in the EU – Achievements and future development". This report reviews developments concerning Maritime Spatial Planning ...

Council agrees 2011 catch limits for Black Sea

At the end of the first day of their meeting in Brussels, the Council of Fisheries Ministers reached political agreement on TACs and quotas for turbot and sprat fisheries in the Black Sea.

Commission disappointed with lack of progress on tropical tunas conservation in Western and Central Pacific

The European Commission regrets the inability of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) to agree on a new and effective approach to managing tropical tunas at its 7th annual meeting in Honolulu from 6 to 10 December.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of December 2010

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 13 (starting at 9.30 a.m.) and Tuesday 14 December. It will be chaired for the Agriculture issues by Mrs Sabine Laruelle,...

2011 guide prices for fisheries products: decrease for most products

The European Commission has tabled its annual proposal on next year’s guide prices for fresh and frozen fisheries products as well as the EU producer price for tuna for processing. The market for fisheries products appears to be recovering, following the dramatic drops in first-sale prices in 2009.

Fisheries: Commission proposes reduced fishing opportunities for the Black Sea for 2011

The European Commission has tabled its proposal on fishing possibilities for fish stocks in the Black Sea for 2011.

European Commission: Summary of the results of the 2011 ICCAT annual meeting

On Saturday 27 November the annual meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) closed.

Press statement by EU Commissioner Maria Damanaki, after the ICCAT annual meeting in Paris which closed on Saturday 27 November

"This year's ICCAT meeting has produced results which represent a step in the right direction for sustainable management of bluefin tuna and other species. This is important not just for ICCAT waters and stocks, but for fisheries management globally, and for the EU as a whole.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of November 2010

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 29 November (starting at 10 a.m.) and (if necessary) Tuesday 30 November. It will be chaired for the Agriculture issues by Mrs Sabine Laruelle, ...

ICCAT: EU tables ambitious proposals to protect sharks

At the annual meeting of International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) being held this week in Paris, the EU has tabled proposals for two new recommendations prohibiting fishing for porbeagle and thresher and hammerhead sharks. The EU is also working with the USA and other members of ICCAT on a third proposal which would set precautionary catch limits for shortfin mako sharks. Together, these proposals provide an opportunity to make substantial progress in bringing the management of shark fisheries in the ICCAT convention area into line with scientific advice.

Statement by Ms. Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, on Coreper meeting of today on the mandate for bluefin tuna ahead

Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy: last stakeholders' conference on the reform to take place tomorrow

Three European Commissioners and a wide range of stakeholders will speak at the conference entitled "Another Future for Fisheries" tomorrow, 16 November in Brussels. The event, hosted by European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki, will feature speeches by Commissioner for Research and Innovation Ms Màire Geoghegan-Quinn and by Environment Commissioner Mr Janez Potocnik.

Commission to stop shark finning

The European Commission wants to eradicate the practice of shark finning completely from EU waters and fishing vessels from the EU wherever they operate in the world. Finning consists of cutting off and keeping the fins of sharks while throwing the shark body overboard to die.

Statement by Ms. Maria Damanaki, EU Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries - Coreper meeting of today on the mandate for bluefin tuna ahead of the upcoming ICCAT meeting in Paris

European Commission's proposal on fishing opportunities: the ins and outs

What are TACs and quotas?
A TAC – which stands for total allowable catch – is a legal limit on the overall amount of fish of a particular species that can be taken from the sea in a given area and brought ashore over a specified period (usually one year). A quota is a share of the TAC that can be fished by one Member State.

Fisheries: Commission proposes science-based, sustainable fishing opportunities for 2011

The European Commission has adopted its fishing opportunities proposal for 2011 setting levels of total allowable catch (TAC) and fishing effort for the Atlantic, the North Sea, and international waters regulated ...

Statement on the ICCAT Annual Meeting and bluefin tuna

On 9 November 2010 the European Commission adopted a proposal for the EU position on bluefin tuna at the upcoming meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). At the meeting,  ICCAT Parties will be called to agree on a bluefin tuna recovery plan for the period 2011-2013. Commissioner Damanaki has issued the following statement:

Statement by Commissioner Damanaki on the ICCAT Annual Meeting and bluefin tuna

It has been for several years now that the state of the bluefin tuna stock remains a cause for major concern. Despite the efforts made so far, in particular by the EU, and the progress achieved, there are still open questions regarding how we can ensure the long sustainability of the species. This, in turn, is the only way by which our fishermen can keep on with their activity.

Commissioner Damanaki to discuss EU-Russia cooperation in Moskow

Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki will start a two-day visit to Russia on 28 October.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of October 2010

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Tuesday 26 October (starting at 10 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mrs Sabine Laruelle, Belgian minister for SMEs, the Self-Employed, Agriculture and Science ...

Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy: registration now open for last stakeholder conference before Commission starts drawing up proposals

European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki will host a one-day conference entitled "Another Future for Fisheries", which will officially close the consultation on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, before the Commission starts drawing up concrete proposals for the new policy. It will take an unusual format in that the key note speakers will not be the customary interested parties or politicians, but rather people who, by working in the fisheries sector, have come up with remarkably effective and ground-breaking projects.

Commission presents roadmap towards more efficient and cost-effective maritime surveillance

The European Commission today set out concrete steps to enhance the effectiveness and cost efficiency of surveilling European Seas. In a roadmap, the Commission spells out how to bring together relevant Member States' ...

EU's Fisheries Control Agency adopts work programme 2011-2015

The Community Fisheries Control Agency (CFCA) based in Vigo, Spain, has adopted its multiannual work programme for 2011-2015 as well as the annual work programme and budget for 2011.

EurOCEAN 2010: European Research ready for maritime challenge

Research is essential to the sustainable use of European marine waters. Over 300 researchers and policy makers are meeting at the conference 'EurOCEAN 2010: Grand challenges for marine research in the next decade' ...

Commissioner Damanaki in Turkey to discuss maritime and fisheries issues

Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki will travel to Ankara and Istanbul from the 6th to the 9th of October, to discuss both fisheries and maritime affairs and pursue closer EU-Turkey cooperation in the shared goals of a sustainable marine environment and a sustainable an prosperous fishing environment. 

No increase in deep-sea fishing opportunities 2011-2012

The European Commission proposes not to grant increases in fishing opportunities for deep-sea fish in EU waters and in international waters of the North-East Atlantic for 2011-2012 until positive trends in the abundance ...

Commissioner Damanaki in Scotland to discuss maritime and fisheries issues

Tomorrow and Saturday, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki will be in Scotland for her first visit as European Commissioner.

Renewed support for the Integrated Maritime Policy

Today the European Commission put forward its proposal for continued financial support to the EU's Integrated Maritime Policy, established in 2007, for the period between 2011 and 2013....

The EU welcomes NAFO's unprecedented precautionary measures for the conservation of international fish stocks

Thanks to the European Union’s determination to follow scientific advice strictly, and also thanks to the close cooperation with partner countries, the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO) adopted unprecedented precautionary measures for the conservation and management of fish stocks under its purview at its Annual Meeting held in Halifax, Canada, on 20-24 September 2010.

EU to advocate sustainable tuna fishing at meeting of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC)

The European Commission will represent the EU at the annual meeting of the IATTC which starts today and goes on to 1 October 2010 in Antigua, Guatemala.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of September 2010

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 27 September (starting at 10 a.m.). It will be chaired by of Mrs Sabine Laruelle, Belgian minister for SMEs, the Self-Employment, Agriculture and ...

Commissioner Maria Damanaki's visit to Athens

The Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Ms Maria Damanaki, met today in Athens WWF representatives Mr. Sergi Tudela, Director of the Programme Fisheries of the Mediterranean, and Mr. Yiorgos Paximadis, responsible for the Maritime Environment of WWF Greece.

Adoption of a draft agreement between the EU and Morocco in the agri-food and fisheries sector

The European Commission has today adopted a draft decision on a EU-Morocco bilateral trade agreement for agri-food and fisheries products. It now passes to the Council and the European Parliament for approval....

European Commission's proposal on fishing opportunities: why and how?

What are TACs and Quotas? Ideally, fishing activities would take from each stock no more fish than can safely be removed without inhibiting the stock's capacity to spawn and to bring in young fish to the stock. ...

Fisheries: Commission proposes fishing opportunities for the Baltic Sea for 2011

The European Commission has tabled its proposal on fishing possibilities for fish stocks in the Baltic Sea for 2011. Based on scientific advice, the Commission proposes increased fishing opportunities for Baltic ...

Seminar on state of Europe's Fish Stocks convenes tomorrow

European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, will open a one-day seminar on the state of fish stocks in European waters tomorrow.

Marine Knowledge 2020

Why a marine knowledge initiative? Without marine knowledge we cannot sustainably manage the changing seas and oceans, we cannot understand the impact of these changes on human activity and we cannot take advantage ...

Marine Knowledge 2020: A better understanding of our seas and oceans to boost competitiveness and growth

European Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki has today unveiled the Commission's Marine Knowledge 2020 proposal to unlock the potential of Europe's marine knowledge....

€45 million for EU research projects focusing on innovative and sustainable maritime activities

The European Commission will tomorrow present to stakeholders and potential participants its €45 million investment in research projects on maritime activities. "The ocean of tomorrow 2011" call for research proposals ...

Commissioner Damanaki to host seminar on state of Europe's Fish Stocks

On 14 September, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, will open a one-day seminar on the state of fish stocks in European waters.

Moving fisheries and maritime policy forward: Commissioner Damanaki visits Germany

European Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki arrives in Germany today for a series of engagements in Berlin and Hamburg.

Commission expresses concern on unilateral mackerel quota declared by Faeroe Islands

The European Commission today expressed its grave concern at the unilateral mackerel quota of 85,000 t set by Faeroe Islands for 2010. It pointed out that this level amounted to three times the level of Faeroese traditional quota entitlement under multilateral management arrangements between the EU, Norway and Faeroe Islands in force from 1999 to 2009.

The EC pays € 64 million as part of the annual contribution of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement with Mauritania

On 4 August 2010, the European Commission paid € 64 million as part of the annual financial contribution of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement (FPA) with Mauritania. This contribution includes a first component to pay for the cost of access of EU vessels to Mauritanian waters (€ 55 million) and a second component to support the partner country's fisheries sector (€ 9 million).

European Union signs high-seas fishery resource convention

The European Union is now a signatory to an important regional fisheries management convention which, once it enters into force, will ensure that fishing from western Australia to South America is subject to agreed international rules.

Visit of Commissioner Mrs Maria Damanaki to Athens

The Member of the European Commission responsible for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Mrs. Maria Damanaki, met in Athens today with the Greek Minister for the Environment, Energy and Climate Change, Mrs Tina Birbili.

Commission proposes higher anchovy catches in Bay of Biscay

The European Commission today proposed a total allowable catch (TAC) of 15 600 tonnes of anchovy in the Bay of Biscay for the fishing season 1 July 2010 - 30 June 2011.

Commission invites stakeholders to discuss Reform of the Market Policy on Fishery and Aquaculture Products

Tomorrow, the European Commission will be holding a large stakeholder seminar focussed on "The Reform of the Market Policy on Fishery and Aquaculture Products".

North Sea and Skagerrak sandeel: Commission authorises increase in catches

Today, the Commission has adopted a Regulation to modify the 2010 fishing possibilities for sandeel in the North Sea and Skagerrak.

Commissioner Damanaki welcomes election of new ACFA chairman

European Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki has welcomed the election of Mr Gerard van Balsfoort as new chairman of the EU's Advisory Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture (ACFA).

New organic aquaculture rules a route to a more sustainable and profitable future for aquaculture

Organic farming is one of the most dynamic food production sectors in the European Union and from today, with the entry into force of new rules for organic aquaculture production, the potential for growth of this sector is set to be unleashed. 

Preparation of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council of June 2010

The Agriculture and Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Tuesday 29 June, under the presidency of Mrs Elena Espinosa, Spanish Minister of the ...

Mediterranean Regulation : Commission writes to member states re implementation

The European Commission is sending a letter to five member states on the implementation of the Mediterranean Regulation, recalling that all the rules fully apply as from 1 June 2010 while specifying what is further needed from each Member State to make their national management plan operational.

EU action plan for seabirds: the Commission calls for stakeholder input to enrich the debate

Seabirds often lead fishermen to productive fishing grounds; in return, they can often take advantage of the fishermen's operations ...

Bluefin tuna: Commission closes the purse seine fishery

Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries decided to close the bluefin tuna fishery to purse seiners in the Mediterranean and Eastern Atlantic, due to the exhaustion of the quotas allocated to them.

Questions and Answers on the Mediterranean Fisheries Regulation

Questions and Answers on the Mediterranean Fisheries Regulation What are the specificities of the Mediterranean basin? In the Mediterranean mainly multi-species and multi-gears fishing activities undertaken by small vessels ...

Mediterranean Fisheries: sustainable fishing practices cannot be postponed

Mediterranean Fisheries: sustainable fishing practices cannot be postponed Over 54% of the Mediterranean fish stocks which have been analysed by scientists are found to be overfished....

Bilateral talks: New protocol with the Republic of Seychelles

The protocol to the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the EU and the Republic of Seychelles has just been renewed for a 3-year period starting in January 2011.

Fisheries: Reviewing an important governance tool for fisheries in the high seas - the United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement

The EU and other fishing nations from around the world met at the United Nations Headquarters in New York last week to assess the progress made in implementing the United Nations Convention on the Conservation and Management of Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks...

Review Conference on the UN Fish Stocks Agreement, New York, 24 – 28 May 2010

The EU and other fishing nations from around the world met at the United Nations Headquarters in New York last week to assess the progress made in implementing the United Nations Convention on the Conservation and Management of Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks.

Négociation d'un nouveau protocole à l'Accord de Partenariat de pêche entre l'Union européenne et l'Union des Comores, Port Louis, Maurice, du 20 au 21 mai 2010

A l'issue de la commission mixte qui s'est réunie dans le cadre de l'Accord de partenariat de pêche entre l'Union européenne et l'Union des Comores, la délégation comorienne, conduite par Monsieur Idi Nadhoim, Vice Président de l'Union des Comores en charge du Ministère de la Pêche, et la délégation de l'Union européenne conduite par Monsieur Constantin Alexandrou, Chef d'Unité à l'Unité des accords bilatéraux de la Direction Générale des Affaires Maritimes et de la Pêche de la Commission européenne, ont mené la négociation d'un nouveau protocole, en présence des représentants de la France et de l'Espagne.

European Maritime Day 2010: a genuine stakeholders' event kicks off in Gijon, Spain

European Maritime Day 2010: a genuine stakeholders' event kicks off in Gijon, Spain European Maritime Day is celebrated every year on 20 May. This year, Gijon will host the European Maritime Day Stakeholder Conference from ...

Pilot version of European Atlas of the Seas to shed new light on maritime Europe

The European Commission today launched a pilot version of a new European Atlas of the Seas – a dynamic online atlas where users will be able to learn more about Europe's seas, its maritime sectors, the interaction between them and the maritime policy which brings them all together.

Questions and Answers on the European Atlas of the Seas

Commission seeks to get fisheries management on track in 2011

Today the European Commission published its report launching discussions on fishing opportunities in EU waters in 2011....

Global and local issues on the agenda as Commissioner Damanaki visits France

European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, arrived in France this morning for a two-day visit, during which she will attend the fifth Global Oceans Conference at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris and hold a series of meetings in Brittany.

Conference on the Reform of the CFP, La Coruna, 2-3 May 2010

On May 2 and 3 over 230 people with an interest in fisheries (from Member State administrations, RACs and ACFA, industry, NGO's, members of the European Parliament or representatives of the main EU institutions) gathered in La Coruna, Spain, to take part in a broad stakeholders’ conference discussing some of the main pillars of the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy.

Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy : outcome of stakeholder conference to feed into ministers' debate

On May 2 and 3, over 230 stakeholders took part in a broad conference on the future reform of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy.

La Commission européenne valide le plan de soutien exceptionnel aux conchyliculteurs et pisciculteurs

La Commissaire Maria Damanaki a signé une Décision de la Commission de ne pas soulever d'objections à l'encontre de l'Aide d'Etat N 119/2010 - France - Plan de soutien exceptionnel aux conchyliculteurs et pisciculteurs des départements touchés par la tempête Xynthia dans la nuit du 27 au 28 février 2010. 

Promotion and marketing of fisheries and aquaculture products on the menu at Madrid seminars

Today and tomorrow, the European Commission and the Spanish Presidency are holding two seminars in Madrid on the marketing and supply of fishery and aquaculture products on the EU market.

Avancées substantielles du partenariat dans le domaine des pêches entre la Mauritanie et l'Union européenne

L'Union européenne s'est déclarée très satisfaite du résultat positif de la réunion de la Commission Mixte entre la République Islamique de Mauritanie et l’Union européenne, tenue à Nouakchott du 21 au 25 mars 2010.

Management measures for the sustainable exploitation of fishery resources in the Mediterranean Sea

Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Mrs Maria Damanaki made clear yesterday that there will be no postponement in the implementation of the Mediterranean Regulation no. 1967/2006.

Statement by the European Commission on CITES vote on bluefin tuna

"We are disappointed with the outcome of the CITES meeting as regards the EU proposal for a listing in Appendix I of bluefin tuna. The EU proposal was a strong commitment towards a sustainable future for the bluefin tuna and for fishermen.

Current initiatives and future prospects on the agenda as Commissioner Damanaki visits Spain

Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, arrives in Spain this evening for a three-day visit to Madrid and Vigo. During her visit, the Commissioner will meet with political leaders, industry representatives, shipowners and other stakeholders to gauge their views on a range of issues. She will also meet staff at the Community Fisheries Control Agency, based in Vigo, and see a number of local projects at work.

Fisheries: Unprecedented progress in protection of Indian Ocean fish stocks thanks to EU leadership

Strides forward were made last week by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission for the protection of the fish stocks in the Indian Ocean, such as tropical tunas and shark stocks. The parties agreed among others on an enhanced system for control and compliance, on introducing a time/area closure and on forbidding sharks from the thresher family from being taken or kept on board.

European Commission proposes that EU support ban on international trade in Atlantic bluefin tuna

The European Commission today proposed that the European Union should press for a ban on international trade in Atlantic bluefin tuna to enter into force within the next year. The Commission is deeply concerned that overfishing of Atlantic bluefin tuna driven largely by international trade is seriously depleting stocks of the species.

Commission welcomes joined EU/Norway initiative on mackerel management

After lengthy consultations over recent months, the European Union and Norway have struck a crucial long-term agreement on mackerel management in the North-East Atlantic, which provides both for stable quota shares and for agreed access arrangements for their respective fleets over a ten-year period.

EU and Faeroe Islands agree on fishing possibilities for 2010

The European Commission, negotiating on behalf of the European Union, and the Faeroe Islands have agreed on the levels of fishing possibilities in each other's waters, as well as access provisions for blue whiting for 2010.

Fisheries: Entry into force of new system to better control fisheries and fight against illegal fishing

On 1 January 2010, a set of new, strong rules will enter into force to bolster the control system of the European Union's Common Fisheries Policy. These rules will give the EU and its Member States new and powerful tools not only to protect the resources of our seas and oceans from unscrupulous operators, but also to protect the livelihoods of honest fishermen who would otherwise be exposed to unfair competition.

Reform of Common Fisheries Policy control framework – questions and answers

Why do we need a new control regulation?

The fisheries control regulation in force until now dates back to 1993. It has since been amended a dozen times, in particular in 1998 to include the control of fishing effort, and in 2002 during the last reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Commission agrees with Faeroe Islands to fight illegal fishing

The European Commission has signed an administrative cooperation agreement with Faroe Islands which marks a new step in the parties' efforts to prevent, deter and eliminate Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Fisheries Council gives further fillip to environmental, social and economic sustainability

At their last Council meeting of 2009, Europe's fisheries ministers reached political agreement on the Commission's proposal for fishing opportunities for 2010.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of December 2009

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 14 (starting at 10.00), Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 December, under the Presidency of Mr Eskil Erlandsson, Swedish minister for Agriculture.

Fisheries: Commission proposes that the Council denounce the EU-Guinea Fisheries Partnership Agreement

The political situation in the Republic of Guinea prompted the European Commission to withdraw its proposal on the signing of a fisheries partnership agreement between the European Union and Guinea (see MEX/09/1021 ). Commissioner Joe Borg, responsible for maritime affairs and fisheries, informed the EU Presidency and the European Parliament of this intention and received their backing.

Commission agrees with Canada and Iceland to fight illegal fishing

The European Commission has just signed two administrative cooperation agreements with Canada and Iceland which mark a new step in the parties' efforts to prevent, deter and eliminate Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Fisheries: EU/Norway consultations for 2010 – a real missed opportunity

After several weeks of negotiations between the European Union and Norway on bilateral fisheries arrangements for 2010, including arrangements on mackerel, the two Parties, at their latest meeting in Bergen (Norway), were unable to agree mutually satisfactory arrangements for their fishermen.

2010 guide prices for fisheries products: decrease for most products

The European Commission has adopted its annual proposal on next year’s guide prices for fresh and frozen fisheries products as well as the EU producer price for tuna for processing.

Fisheries Council moves forward on sustainability agenda

At their Council meeting in Brussels today, fisheries ministers addressed a wide range of issues.

On the conservation of fisheries resources through technical measures, the Council reached agreement on a Presidency compromise.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of November 2009

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Friday 20 November (starting at 9.30), under the Presidency of Mr Eskil Erlandsson, Swedish minister for Agriculture. Commissioners Mariann Fischer Boel and Joe Borg will represent the Commission at the meeting.

Fisheries: Commission welcomes ICCAT’s decisive action to save bluefin tuna and other marine species

Yesterday the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT), which met near Recife, Brazil, adopted a number of new multi-annual management plans which align fishing opportunities with the latest scientific opinions.

Commission welcomes the creation of a new fisheries management organisation for the South Pacific high seas

The European Commission has welcomed the adoption of a Convention for the setting up of a new regional fisheries management organisation (RFMO), to manage non-tuna fish stocks in the south Pacific, in Auckland, New Zealand.

ICCAT: a step forward in the conservation of Mediterranean swordfish

Today, at the 2009 Regular Meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT) currently taking place in Brazil, the EU will present a new proposal which would lead to substantial progress in the conservation and management of swordfish in the Mediterranean.

Commission agrees with New Zealand and the United States to fight illegal fishing

Last week, the European Commission signed two administrative cooperation agreements with New Zealand and the United States which mark a new step in the parties' efforts to prevent, deter and eliminate Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Fisheries: opening of crucial meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)

Tomorrow will see the opening of the Annual Meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) in Recife, Brazil. Key issues on the table for the EU are how to ensure the recovery of Atlantic bluefin tuna, in particular by reducing the total allowable catches (TAC) and fishing capacity, the strengthening of compliance with ICCAT rules and the adoption of the right science-based measures for all fish stocks.

Commission welcomes agreement on innovative measures at meeting on the conservation of Antarctic marine resources

The European Commission has welcomed the positive outcome of the annual meeting of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), which has now concluded its deliberations in Tasmania, Australia.

Fisheries: EU is ready to combat illegal fishing

On 22 October 2009, following the favourable opinion expressed in September by the Committee for Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Commission adopted a Regulation establishing the implementing rules for the 2008 Regulation to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Fisheries Council agrees on Control regulation and on 2010 fishing possibilities for the Baltic Sea

The Fisheries Council meeting in Luxembourg on 19 and 20 October took a number of important decisions and made headway on a number of issues. The discussions were dominated by the Commission's proposals for a root-and-branch reform of the CFP control framework and for fishing possibilities in the Baltic Sea for 2010.

Statement by Commissioner Borg on the withdrawal of the Commission's proposal for a fisheries agreement with Guinea

This morning, I informed the EU fisheries ministers at the Council meeting in Luxembourg that, in the light of the recent tragic events in the Republic of Guinea, I would be asking the Commission to initiate the necessary procedures to withdraw the proposal to adopt the current Fisheries Partnership Agreement and Protocol with Guinea.

Fisheries: Commission proposal for Total Allowable Catches for 2010

Today, the European Commission is proposing the new levels of total allowable catch (TAC) and fishing effort for fish stocks available to Community fishing vessels mainly in the Atlantic and the North Sea.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of October 2009

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Monday 19 (starting at 10.00) and Tuesday 20 October, under the Presidency of Mr Eskil Erlandsson, Swedish minister for Agriculture.

European Commission's proposal on fishing opportunities: why and how?

What are TACs and Quotas?

Ideally, fishing activities would take from each stock no more fish than can safely be removed without inhibiting the stock's capacity to spawn and to bring in young fish to the stock.

The Community Fisheries Control Agency adopts its Work Programme and Budget for 2010

Yesterday, the Community Fisheries Control Agency (CFCA) adopted its work programme and budget for 2010.

Fisheries: Commission proposes 2010 fishing opportunities for the Black Sea

The European Commission today adopted a proposal for fishing opportunities for the Black Sea for 2010. The Commission proposes a Total Allowable Catch (TAC) of 76 tonnes for turbot, a 25% reduction compared to 2009, and a TAC of 12,750 tonnes for sprat, unchanged from 2009.

EU concludes Fisheries Partnership Agreement with the Solomon Islands

The European Commission, on behalf of the EU, has initialled a new Fisheries Partnership Agreement with the Solomon Islands. This agreement replaces the current  one between the two Parties, which entered into force in October 2006. The new agreement covers a period of 3 years and provides fishing possibilities exclusively for tuna for EU vessels fishing in the waters of the Solomon Islands.

Fisheries: Commission welcomes NAFO agreement on conservation measures

The Commission is broadly satisfied with the progress achieved in the annual meeting of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organisation, which took place in Bergen, Norway, from 21 to 25 September 2009.

Commission statement on the decision by Member States not to support Monaco's proposal to ban international trade in Atlantic bluefin tuna

Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas regrets the decision today by EU Member States not to give their support to a proposal to temporarily ban international trade of Atlantic bluefin tuna under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Towards an EU Integrated Maritime Policy and better maritime governance in the Mediterranean: questions and answers

Key figures on the Mediterranean Sea
Approximately 45,000 km of coastline, of which 19,000 km represent island coastlines.

Commission recommends provisional EU support for Monaco's proposal to list Atlantic bluefin tuna in CITES Convention

The European Commission shares many of the concerns expressed by Monaco about the state of the stocks of Atlantic bluefin tuna, and has agreed that the EU could provisionally co-sponsor Monaco's proposal requesting the listing of bluefin tuna in CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) appendix 1.

Fisheries: Commission proposes fishing opportunities for the Baltic Sea for 2010

The European Commission tabled yesterday its proposal on fishing possibilities for fish stocks in the Baltic Sea for 2010. Scientific advice has shown that cod stocks are recovering, but that the Western herring stock still gives rise to serious concern.

Agreed record with Norway on implementation of the IUU Regulation

Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing is a worldwide phenomenon with disastrous environmental and socio-economic impacts, threatening the sustainable exploitation of living aquatic resources and marine biodiversity. It also has serious overall consequences for coastal countries, which lose out on their marine resources to illegal operators.

Commissioner Borg: "International agreement on Port State control standards is a major blow to pirate fishing"

The European Commission has welcomed the successful conclusion today at the Rome headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of negotiations to establish an international agreement on port state measures as part of the global fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.

"The ocean of tomorrow": €34 million dedicated to multidisciplinary research projects to reconcile maritime activities with the preservation of seas and oceans

Today, the European Commission launched "The ocean of tomorrow " call for research proposals. Oceans cover about 70% of the Earth's surface, but human activity is increasing environmental pressure on them.

Commission adopts innovative plan to protect anchovy stock in Bay of Biscay

The European Commission today adopted a proposal for a long-term plan to manage the anchovy stock in the Bay of Biscay.

Long-term management plan for anchovy in the Bay of Biscay: questions and answers

What is the rationale behind long-term management plans?

Fisheries: Tuna governance advances, but capacity is still 'the' issue

The European Commission welcomes the strong endorsement given by the international community to the 'Kobe process' to improve and streamline international management of high-seas tuna fisheries at a meeting in San Sebastian, Spain, which closed earlier today.

Fisheries: EU hosts meeting on future of global tuna fisheries

The European Commission, on behalf of the European Union, will today welcome representatives to the opening of the Second Joint Meeting of the five tuna Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) in San Sebastian, Spain.

Questions and Answers on Regional Fisheries Management Organisations

What are Regional Fisheries Management Organisations?

Fisheries: Simplification of fisheries rule is a success – and must continue!

The Commission yesterday presented to Council its Communication on the implementation of the 2006-08 Action Plan for simplifying and improving the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Commission welcomes positive Fisheries Council conclusions

The European Commission welcomes the results of this morning's Fisheries Council meeting in Luxembourg, at which Council conclusions on sustainable development of EU aquaculture were adopted.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of June 2009

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Monday 22 (starting at 11.00) and Tuesday 23 June, under the Presidency of Mr Jakub Šebesta, Czech minister for Agriculture.

Fisheries Ministers held a fruitful meeting on the future of the Common Fisheries Policy and on the phasing out of discards

Ministers for Fisheries meeting today in Council in Brussels have extended their support to the Commission's plans for reform of the Common Fisheries Policy.  Joe Borg, Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime affairs, welcomed the frank and open discussion held in the Council today which demonstrated the support of the Council to take courageous steps to have a real and meaningful reform of the CFP.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of May 2009

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 25 May (starting at 14.30), under the Presidency of Mr Jakub Šebesta , Czech minister for Agriculture.

Commission opens the discussion on fishing possibilities for 2010

Today the European Commission presented its views on how to set fishing possibilities in EU waters for 2010. A consultation document sets out the approach the Commission intends to take when setting the Total Allowable Catches (TACs) and the fishing effort limitations for the coming year.

Fisheries Council: ministers hold fruitful discussions on a range of issues

Yesterday fisheries ministers met within the Council to discuss a number of issues of importance to Europe's fisheries. The talks proved fruitful and helped to make progress on a number of dossiers.

Fisheries: Commission welcomes Parliament's support for a new control system for EU fisheries

The European Commission has welcomed the support provided by the European Parliament today to its proposal for a new fisheries control system designed to ensure compliance with the rules of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Fisheries: open debate on the future of the European Common Fisheries Policy

Today, the European Commission adopted a Green Paper on the future of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy. The paper analyses the shortcomings of the current Policy and launches a broad public consultation on how these shortcomings should be tackled.

Preparation Agriculture/Fisheries Council of April 2009

The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Thursday 23 (starting at 15.00) and Friday 24 April, under the Presidency of Mr Petr Gandalovič, Czech minister for Agriculture.

Commission launches long-term management approach for western horse mackerel

The European Commission today adopted a proposal for a long-term plan for the sustainable management of horse mackerel across the eastern Atlantic from the Iberian Peninsula to the northern North Sea.

Fisheries: Unlocking European aquaculture's full potential

As one of the world's fastest growing food sectors, aquaculture, already provides the planet with about half of all the fish we eat and still has a lot more to give.

Questions and answers – New impetus for the sustainable development of EU aquaculture

What is aquaculture?
Aquaculture, also known as fish farming, is to water what agriculture is to land – in other words, an aquaculture farmer rears aquatic animals or cultivates aquatic plants.

European Commission gives guarded reaction to outcome of Indian Ocean Tuna Commission meeting

The Commission is disappointed that the significant steps taken in some areas by the 13th session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) in Bali (Indonesia) from 30 March to 3 April 2009 have been offset by a failure to make progress in others.

Fisheries: EU shows its full commitment to bluefin tuna conservation

Today the Council adopted a Regulation to transpose into Community law the new multi-annual recovery plan for Eastern bluefin tuna adopted by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) at its annual meeting in Marrakech, Morocco, in November 2008.

North East Atlantic: Only limited progress made to protect Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems

The European Commission has welcomed with mixed feelings the outcome of the meeting of Heads of Delegation of the North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC) held in London last week, attended by the European Union, Iceland, Denmark in respect of  the Faeroe Islands and Greenland, Norway and the Russian Federation.

Commission deeply concerned about Iceland's unilateral mackerel quota

The European Commission has expressed its serious concern at the recent action by Iceland to declare a unilateral mackerel quota of 112 000 tonnes for 2009.

Strides forward for responsible fishing in the Mediterranean

The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), which met in Tunis last week for its annual session, adopted a number of recommendations towards sustainable fisheries management.

EU proposes measures for Indian Ocean Tuna Commission to safeguard tuna and sharks

The EU has tabled ambitious proposals in view of this year's annual meeting of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), which will take place in Bali from 30 March to 3 April 2009.

Commission pushes for strong measures to protect sensitive marine habitats in the North East Atlantic

At the initiative of the EU, the Heads of Delegation of the North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC) meet in London this week to consider concrete NEAFC measures to implement the UN General Assembly resolution on vulnerable marine ecosystems.

EU proposes strong action to make fully operational the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean

The EU has put forward a set of ambitious proposals for this year's annual meeting of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) in Tunis from 23 to 27 March 2009.

Fisheries: New Commission step towards sustainability of northern hake

The European Commission today adopted a long-term plan to improve further the state of the northern hake stock in EU waters. This plan will replace the recovery plan which has been in place since 2004, and which has successfully helped the northern hake stock recover from almost collapse to the safe target size advised by scientists.

Fisheries: Commission rebuts Ombudsman's recommendation concerning quotas for West of Scotland

The Commission has received the Ombudsman's draft recommendation wherein he asks the Commission to rectify an administrative error concerning fishing quotas in the West of Scotland allocated for the year 2007.

Bluefin tuna: Commission proposes application of revised ICCAT recovery plan

Today the European Commission adopted a proposal to transpose into Community law the revised multi-annual recovery plan for Eastern bluefin tuna adopted by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) at its annual meeting in Marrakech, Morocco in November 2008.

Fisheries: Commission moves to protect sharks

Today, the European Commission adopted the first ever EU Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks.

Questions and answers – shark action plan

Why is the Commission launching an Action Plan for Sharks?
Shark fisheries have been growing rapidly since the mid-1980s, mainly driven by rapidly expanding demand from Asian markets.