In a working document dated Wednesday 27 November with a view to negotiations at the Council of the European Union, the European Commission states that it intends to propose reducing fishing mortality by 66% and 38% in 2025, depending on the fish stock, for vessels using trawls operating in the Mediterranean.
These restrictions would run counter to the demands of the countries concerned (Spain, France and Italy), which have called for the fishing effort (number of possible days at sea) for 2025 to be frozen at 2024 levels (see EUROPE 13526/8).
The Commission bases its decision on scientific advice and the implementation of the multi-annual management plan for the Western Mediterranean.
Compensation mechanism. In addition, in order to improve the management of key stocks, promote the use of more selective gear, such as increased cod-end mesh size, and establish effective closed areas protecting juveniles and spawners, the Commission is again proposing for 2025 a ‘compensation mechanism’ (additional fishing days) for vessels adopting measures based on the best available scientific advice.
Link to the Commission’s note: https://aeur.eu/f/eiy (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)