December 7th, 2016 — The European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee on Monday approved the European Commission’s proposal to regulate the activities of the EU fleet operating outside European Union waters.
MEPs have recognized the need to take steps towards greater transparency and sustainability of fisheries. One of the measures proposed is the creation of the first public register on fleet activities in third countries, international waters and Regional Fisheries Organizations (RFOs).
Several environmental organizations welcomed the decision taken by the Committee on Fisheries of the European Parliament.
Oceana, in particular, congratulates MEPs on their support for the creation of the first public database of fishing authorizations (including IMO numbers, owners and potential catches).
“The European Parliament has today taken a significant step towards raising standards and providing pioneering rules for fishing activities outside EU waters, which accounts for 28 per cent of total EU catches. The vote of the Committee on Fisheries is a great step forward in making the European fleet to consolidate as an international model of transparency, accountability and sustainability,” explains Maria Jose Cornax, Campaign Director for Oceana in Europe.