Italian Minister Discusses CFP with Commissioner

The discussion on the proposals for the reform of the EU Common Fisheries Policy was very productive and allowed Commissioner Damanaki and Minister Catania to find common grounds on several issues.

"The meeting with Commissioner Damanaki was very positive as it allowed us to highlight the main issues concerning the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP)," said Mr Catania.

"In particular, I pointed out to the Commissioner the need to confirm some basic measures for the protection of fish stocks and the fishing industry such as the Italian fishing bans. I asked for refinance with EU funds, and measures concerning scrapping, the conclusion of which I understand but for which I think it is useful to have a period of 'phasing out'."

"I also expressed my confidence in the Commissioner, whose CFP reform proposal is supported in Italy, provided that takes into account the requests of the country and the specific nature of fishing in the Mediterranean," Mr Catania continued.

"I found a partner in the Commissioner, who is attentive to our proposals, and I am sure we will proceed with a constructive and fruitful dialogue," he concluded.

Following the meeting, Mr Catania had a meeting with Vice-President of the European Parliament Committee on Fisheries, Guido Milana, with whom he made a close examination of the national interests of the industry.

The Minister listened to the proposals of Mr Catania Milana, who is speaker of the reform of the European Fisheries Fund.