Press Release: Commission proposes to protect fragile deep-water ecosystems on the high seas from bottom trawling

The Commission has tabled a strategy for the protection of vulnerable deep sea ecosystems from destructive fishing practices. It has also adopted a proposal for a legal ban on the use of harmful bottom gear from the high sea areas concerned. This initiative is fully in line with the recommendations issued by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in December 2006. In a Communication published on 17 October 2007 the Commission outlines the initiatives that the EU will take to strengthen international action in the UN, Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) and relevant international conventions to protect vulnerable marine habitats. For high sea areas not yet covered by RFMOs, the Commission proposes an innovative scheme that will require fishermen to obtain authorisation to operate in a defined area prior to starting their fishing campaign. These fishing permits may be issued by the Member State concerned only if it has been ascertained that the planned fishing activities will not have significant adverse impact on fragile habitats. In addition, fishing at depths of more than 1,000 metres would also be prohibited to EU vessels. These initiatives to protect fragile ecosystems on the high seas form part of the proposed EU integrated Maritime Policy aimed at ensuring the sustainable use of the oceans and seas (see IP/07/1463).

• Primary Source

European Commission: MEMO/07/411: Questions and Answers on Destructive Fishing Practices http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/07/411&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

---