As we had anticipated (see EUROPE 12208/7), the European Parliament's Fisheries Committee voted in favour of an increase of the 2021-2027 envelope of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) by almost 10%, to €7.739 billion (current prices) in total in Brussels on Thursday 7 March.
MEPs adopted Gabriel Mato's (EPP, Spain) report on the EMFF for the next EU multiannual financial framework (MFF), a report that will be voted on in the plenary of the European Parliament in April. "Brexit should not be used as an excuse to reduce the fishing budget," commented the rapporteur, Mr Mato.
MEPs want specific amounts to be set aside for: - the protection and restoration of marine and coastal biodiversity (at least 10%); - improving safety, cre working and living conditions, training, social dialogue and employment (at least 10%). MEPs clarify provisions for certain investments on vessels (engine modernisation or replacement if power is not increased) and for aid to fishermen suffering from the permanent cessation of fishing activities (provided that fishing capacity is reduced). (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)