Better data collection is one of the key preconditions to save these fish stocks, as acknowledged by the Medfish4Ever political declaration, signed by Mediterranean basin Ministers last week (30 March). To support work towards this objective, the JRC has developed a public database which is now online to help monitor the status of fish stocks in the Mediterranean and Black Sea. Tibor Navracsics, Commissioner for Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, responsible for the JRC, said: "The collection of fisheries data is indispensable for the long-term sustainability of the sector. The online database developed by the Joint Research Centre is a step in the right direction. It contains almost 10 years' worth of fish stock assessments in the Mediterranean Sea. This data and the scientific advice accompanying it will enable a more accurate analysis of existing fish stocks and thus contribute to the overall fisheries management in the Mediterranean, for the benefit of the environment and citizens." Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella said: "Last week in Malta the European Commission and Mediterranean countries from around the sea basin signed the Medfish4Ever Declaration, a 10-year action plan for sustainable fisheries. The JRC database is yet more evidence of the need for urgent action. Our joined up approach matches scientific evidence with political will."

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