The European Parliament, Council and Commission have reached a political agreement on a multi-annual management plan for demersal fish stocks in the North Sea. Covering more than 70 percent of the fishing sector, this new plan sets catch limits based on science and brings decision-making closer to the fisherman.
EU co-legislators reached the agreement during an informal trilogue on the Commission’s proposal from August this year. The new North Sea plan is the first comprehensive plan for the sea basin and the second multi-annual plan for the EU, following the one for the Baltic Sea reached in 2016.
EU Fisheries Commissioner Karmenu Vella said he was “very pleased” with the agreement, as it signaled the EU's determination to protect the future of its fishing industry and coastal communities.
“The North Sea is one of Europe's richest fishing grounds and only with long-term and sound planning, we can provide the necessary predictability and profitability to our fishermen for the long run,” said Vella.
North Sea fisheries are highly complex, involving vessels from at least seven coastal member states as well as Norway. Vessels use a variety of fishing equipment and their catches consist of a mix of different species, such as cod and haddock, or plaice and sole.
The agreement includes provisions that will ensure that the plan stays up to date when scientific advice evolves; allow stakeholders and member states of the sea basin to come up with fisheries innovations and agree them at regional level; and offer them a basis for tailor-made recommendations to implement the landing obligation.
