EU proposes measure to protect deep-sea species in North-East Atlantic
The European Commission (EC) has proposed Total Allowable Catches (TAC) for a number of species for 2019 and 2020, in order to restore deep-sea fish stocks in the North-East Atlantic. These new measures will enable stocks to rebuild to sustainable levels.
The European Commission (EC) has proposed Total Allowable Catches (TAC) for a number of species for 2019 and 2020, in order to restore deep-sea fish stocks in the North-East Atlantic. These new measures will enable stocks to rebuild to sustainable levels.
EC's proposal is based on precautionary scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES), and considers the obligation for fishermen to bring to land all catches as of 1st January 2019.
The proposal reduces the catch limits in seven fish management areas compared to 2017-2018 levels, including for alfonsinos and black scabbardfish. Fishing for orange roughy will remain prohibited.
In addition, positive scientific advice regarding red seabream around the Azores and roundnose grenadier in South Western waters, has allowed the EC to propose increased quotas for these species over the next two years.
The Commission also proposed to cancel the TAC management system for three species:
- Greater forkbeard in the North-East Atlantic;
- Roundnose grenadier in the North Sea;
- Black scabbardfish in the North Sea and Skagerrak.
These are fished in small quantity which does not prevent them from reproducing.
The European Commission will complete the current proposal in view of its adoption by EU Member States in the Council, currently scheduled for 19-20 November.
