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EAPO Responds to Commission on Status of 2025 Fishing Opportunities
The European Association of Fish Producers Organisations (EAPO) has issued a response to the European Commission’s consultation on the state of play and orientations for the 2025 fishing opportunities.
The document highlights the EAPO’s concerns and positions on several key issues related to the future of EU fisheries, sustainability, and international governance.
Overview of Fishing Opportunities and Sustainability
EAPO acknowledges the Commission’s efforts in providing an overview of the state of fish stocks and the progress made towards sustainable fishing practices in the EU. However, EAPO emphasises that sustainability should not only be defined by ecological metrics but must also include social and economic indicators. The organisation appreciates the Commission’s focus on reducing fishing mortality and increasing stock biomass but expresses concerns about the stagnation of fish stocks in regions like the Baltic, Celtic, and Greater North Seas. EAPO also points to the potential negative impact of offshore wind farms on these stocks, as highlighted in a recent Nature article, and calls for careful consideration of such developments.
Concerns Over ICES Advice and Data Quality
EAPO raised concerns about the quality of advice provided by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). While commending ICES for its ongoing efforts to improve data collection and provide accurate advice, EAPO notes discrepancies between scientific data and fishers’ observations. The organisation calls for greater transparency and quality assurance in ICES advice, particularly regarding the use of new models for data-poor stocks. EAPO argues that the priority should be on improving data quality rather than relying on precautionary models that may not reflect the actual state of fish stocks.
Fishing Capacity and Socio-Economic Indicators
EAPO welcomes the Commission’s work on socio-economic indicators, which are crucial for assessing the sustainability of the fishing industry. However, the organisation is concerned about the increasing number of fleet segments classified as “unbalanced” in Member States’ reports on the balance between fishing capacity and opportunities. EAPO suggests revisiting the principles used to determine this balance and advocates for a more flexible approach to capacity ceilings, particularly in light of the industry’s transition to alternative fuels and more energy-efficient practices.
International Governance and Coastal States Negotiations
EAPO supports the Commission’s efforts to strengthen international ocean governance and ensure a level playing field for EU fishers. The organisation emphasises the importance of addressing unilateral actions by other coastal states, such as setting excessive quotas, which could lead to overfishing. EAPO also raises concerns about the UK’s recent actions, including the sandeel fishing ban and the granting of access to its waters to Norwegian vessels, which EAPO believes undermines the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) between the EU and the UK.
Conclusion
EAPO’s response to the Commission’s consultation reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that the future of EU fisheries is guided by a balanced approach to sustainability, incorporating ecological, social, and economic factors. As negotiations for the 2025 fishing opportunities approach, EAPO urges the Commission to consider these factors and engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to address the complex challenges facing the fishing industry.
Källa: The Fishing Daily