Commissioner Damanaki welcomes outcome of 2011 meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas
The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) held its 22nd Regular Meeting in Istanbul from 11 to 19 of November 2011.
"Under the leadership of the European Union, the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas adopted an impressive number of conservation measures", said Commissioner Damanaki. She added: "Upon proposals made by the EU, the management plans for Mediterranean Swordfish and for Tropical Tunas (Bigeye and Yellowfin) were agreed as well as a fishing ban for silky shark and mitigation measures against incidental catches of seabirds."
Read more and comment on Commissioner Damanaki's blog: "Bluefin tuna: a matter of responsibility"
The EU supported also proposals for the conservation of North Atlantic Swordfish, North and South Atlantic Albacore. The EU’s initiative for the best possible science led to the adoption of a comprehensive package of measures, including two resolutions to enhance the scienctific process and the presentation of scientific advice and a measure to withdraw fishing possibilities if no data are submitted by a contracting party.
This year’s compliance assessment showed a considerable improvement by many contracting parties, including the EU. Moreover, the decision to roll out an electronic catch document (e-BCD) for bluefin tuna as promoted by the EU will further enhance the traceability of this species throughout the market chain and thus, enhance the ability to detect fraud and deter illegal shipments.
