MEPs of the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee have criticised an action plan on marine ecosystems being proposed by the Commission. Photo: CEPESCA
Members of the Fisheries Committee at the European Parliament expressed dissatisfaction with the Commission’s action plan on marine ecosystems, criticising what they perceive as an unrealistic balance between biodiversity protection and the fishing industry’s interests.
With a vote of 20 in favour, four against, and no abstentions, the Fisheries Committee highlighted the need for a more nuanced approach that considers additional priorities, such as ensuring food security and EU strategic autonomy, alongside environmental concerns.
MEPs from the committee proposed an integrated ecosystem-based approach that promotes synergies between all maritime activities and encourages collaboration between marine energy infrastructures. They also underscored the importance of maintaining a level playing field with non-EU countries in marine resource management.
Commission’s Approach and Criticisms
The Fisheries Committee criticised the Commission’s action plan for lacking consultation with interested parties, insufficient consideration of potential price increases, and concerns from EU country representatives about a “too simplistic approach” toward bottom trawling restrictions in marine protected areas.
Particularly contentious was the Commission’s proposal to eliminate bottom trawling in all marine protected areas by 2030. MEPs argued that this move, which aims to address environmental concerns, could potentially jeopardise food security or lead to increased imports of products captured using methods not subject to the same restrictions within the EU.
EMFAF as a Catalyst for Transition
The committee acknowledged that progress toward sustainable fisheries, within the context of the Common Fisheries Policy, has come at a high cost for fishing communities. To address this, MEPs proposed using the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) to support the transition of EU fishing fleets toward more selective fishing techniques. This approach aims to assist those most affected by restrictions and mitigate the broader socio-economic impact of the proposed measures.
Next Steps
MEP Francisco Guerreiro (Greens, PT), who voted against, plans to table a minority position. The rapporteur, Niclas Herbst (EPP, DE), assured that efforts were made to represent all opinions.
This initiative is set for further discussion and voting in one of the upcoming plenary sessions.
Background
The Commission’s action plan, presented on February 21, 2023, aims to restore marine biodiversity by improving the implementation of environmental legislation and fisheries policies. The overarching goal is to enhance the sustainability of fishing practices by improving gear selectivity and protecting 30% of seas.
Source: Press Release
