This is the first multiannual plan (MAP) in the EU to be agreed under the new Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The plan aims at managing the stocks of cod, sprat and herring, as well as providing measures for by-catch species of some flatfish. If properly implemented, this plan provides the possibility of improving fisheries management in the Baltic Sea, where, particularly the Eastern Baltic, the cod stock is in a poor condition.
“Europe is bound by the CFP to urgently rebuild fisheries as the only path towards rescuing the economic wealth of coastal communities. The members of the European Parliament should demonstrate tomorrow that they are really committed to this goal,” said Lasse Gustavsson, Executive Director of Oceana in Europe.
“Without proper implementation, even the most ambitious policy remains a paper tiger. The Baltic plan should set an example for future regional plans and provide a truly new approach to fisheries management.”
Oceana believes that the plan as proposed by the European Commission is incomplete. Oceana therefore urges the MEPs to ensure that all shortcomings of the proposal are addressed. The multiannual plan should:
- deliver the CFP objectives, especially to restore and maintain fish populations above levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) by 2015 – 2020 at the latest – in order to ensure healthy stocks and stable and profitable fisheries.
- integrate the ecosystem approach and minimise the impact of fisheries on the marine environment.
- contribute to achieving “Good Environmental Status” before 2020 as required by the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and converge with other EU environmental legislation.
- incorporate the most recent scientific advice and provide safeguards in case of ecosystem emergencies, such as the collapse of fish stocks.
