On Monday 25 November, several NGOs launched an appeal to European fisheries ministers to take action to save hake stocks in the Mediterranean.
Another request, with a view to the Fisheries Council on 9 and 10 December, is to ensure that the ministers set the total allowable catches (TACs) and quotas for 2025 not only in accordance with currently available scientific advice, but even “well below it” (see EUROPE 13519/25).
According to Oceana, the scientific advice currently used is designed neither to preserve the health of the wider ecosystem (food for other marine species) nor to rebuild stocks beyond sustainable levels.
Remi Cossetti, from Seas At Risk, called for the EU to support a business model with a low environmental impact.
On fishing in the Mediterranean, Giulia Guadagnoli, from Oceana, called on France, Italy and Spain (countries that want to freeze fishing effort in 2025 - see EUROPE 13526/8) to adopt emergency measures to save hake. She also advocated a reduction of at least 50% in the number of days at sea for vessels and the adoption of technical measures (fishing gear, areas closed to fishing).
Gonçalo Carvalho, from Sciaena, argued for the protection of deep-sea species and their ecosystem (seamounts).
Arthur Meeus, from ClientEarth, mentioned the proceedings before the Court of Justice of the European Union. “Ending overfishing and protecting marine species is essential not only for the health of our oceans, but also for fishermen and consumers”, he concluded. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)