EFCA 2014 inspections up, fishing infractions down in EU fisheries

The European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) stepped up its inspections in 2014 related to implementing the newly-revised Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), but the percentage of infractions is down, according to the EFCA’s latest report.

The revised CFP contains a number of new provisions, including a ban on discards taking effect this year for some species. The EFCA helped set up monitoring systems and train inspectors last year in anticipation of the new ban.

The EFCA also conducted routine inspections throughout member state fisheries. The total number of inspections in 2014 went up by about 20 percent over 2013. According to the EFCA, the number of recorded infringements went up too, but the overall percentage was down compared to 2013.

"The EFCA contributed to assist the smooth implement of the new features of the reformed Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and particularly worked hard with the Member States to prepare the monitoring of the landing obligation by brokering cooperation, promoting interoperability and building common capacities," said Pascal Savouret, EFCA’s executive director.

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