The Danish Fishermen’s Association is satisfied with the pending dispute showdown between the EU and UK over its sandeel fishery closure
The Danish Fishermen’s Association has welcomed the European Commission’s decision to initiate a case against the United Kingdom following the decision by the Scottish Government and Westminster to close the sandeel fishery in British waters.
Danish fishing has levelled that it is disproportionate and in violation of the Brexit agreement for the UK to have prohibited fishing for sandeel in British waters. Additionally, it believes there is a lack of scientific documentation for possible environmental effects of the closure. Following a campaign by Danish MEP, Asger Christensen and French MEP, Pierre Karleskind, respectively Vice-Chair and Chair of the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee, the European Commission shares this assessment, and agreed to initiate a case against the United Kingdom. This
“It is deeply frustrating that the UK has closed the sandeel fishery on thin grounds. That being said, it is positive that the EU Commission agrees that the UK has violated the Brexit agreement, and I hope that the UK will capitulate,” said Svend-Erik Andersen, Chairman of the Danish Fishermen’s Association.
Arbitration Tribunal
Specifically, the European Commission has sent a communication to the United Kingdom, which means that the parties must try to find a solution to the conflict after a process outlined in the cooperation agreement between the EU and the UK. If this fails, the EU has the right to request the establishment of an arbitration tribunal, where the dispute can be finally resolved.
“I hope that we get a sensible resolution to this matter as soon as possible. We need clarification, and I hope that the EU Commission is prepared to go all the way if the parties cannot reach a solution through the upcoming consultations,” said Svend-Erik Andersen.
Pressure Bears Fruit
In the Danish Fishermen’s Association, they also acknowledge that many Danish politicians have joined the fight to secure the sandeel fishery.
“In the Danish Fishermen’s Association, we have pushed for the government to get involved in this matter. Therefore, I would like to thank several ministers for their efforts. Asger Christensen also deserves a big thank you for pushing through the European Parliament. It is certainly effective when multiple efforts are made,” said Svend-Erik Andersen.
EU Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevicius, who signed the communication to the United Kingdom, stated in a press release:
“The United Kingdom’s permanent closure of the sandeel fishery deprives EU vessels of fishing opportunities but also affects the fundamental obligations under the trade and cooperation agreement between the EU and the United Kingdom. Healthy sandeel stocks are not only crucial for the fragile balance in our marine ecosystems but also for the livelihoods of our fishermen. Measures have already been taken to protect this important species, including setting catches below scientific recommendations and closing areas to protect seabirds. All further decisions must therefore be proportionate to the goals and based on solid scientific evidence, especially when it comes to managing our shared resources. The EU is firmly committed to ensuring that the trade and cooperation agreement is implemented correctly and that both parties adhere to its principles and obligations. I truly hope that these consultations will lead to a mutually acceptable solution for both parties.”