The E.U.'s new proposed catch limits for the Atlantic and North Sea for 2014 include a number of increases and decreases, leaving one fishing association to describe the proposal as 'a mixed bag.'
For a total of 72 stocks managed exclusively by the E.U., the European Commission proposed 2014 total allowable catches (TACs) that were lower compared to last year for half of the stocks. The other half of the stocks, according to a commission statement, got proposals to raise the TAC.
"The commission proposal contains good news for some stocks, while some cuts are required for others. Overall, our knowledge of many stocks has improved which enables sound management decisions to be made," said Maria Damanaki, European commissioner for maritime affairs and fisheries.
As examples, the commission cited herring in the Irish Sea, Northern hake, Megrims in Iberian waters or plaice in the Celtic Sea as stocks that can sustain a higher TAC. The commission proposed cutting TACs for cod stocks in the Irish Sea and the Kattegat, which it described as "in a dire state," along with haddock in the Celtic Sea.
The commission noted recommendations on some stocks are still being worked out, including stocks managed by both the E.U. and partner countries such as Norway.
The Scottish Fishermen's Federation called the proposals "a mixed bag of news" and noted that the fate of TACs for stocks of major concern to the federation are still up in the air.
"The total allowable catch recommendations issued by the EC today are only for some stocks and do not include shared stocks with other nations such as Norway, which will be decided upon at a later date," said Bertie Armstrong, the federation's chief executive. "These will include stocks of crucial interest to Scottish fishermen such as North Sea haddock and cod."
The present proposal shall be discussed by the Member States' ministers at the December Fisheries Council and will apply from 1 January 2014.
