In a session detailing the new Presidency's agenda for the adoption of the reform of the CFP, the Irish Presidency highlighted the spirit of compromise needed to reach agreement on all issues. They include the discard ban, multi-annual management plans and the European Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Fund (EMFF). On these issues a position still needs to be adopted by Council during the forthcoming meetings.

In order to progress with its programme, the points of agreement in the general approach which had already been reached in the Council of June and October 2012  will not be re-opened.

Ministers support the Presidency's objectives and agenda, and highlighted some specific concerns including on the landing obligations, the needs of small-scale fisheries, the criteria for the allocation of public funding, the reform of the Common Market Organisation (CMO) and the importance of aquaculture.