Brussels, 27/03/2002 (Agence Europe) - As announced in EUROPE of 22 March (p.9), the European Commission is to adopt, on 17 April, its first proposals for reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Commissioner Franz Fischler will propose indepth reform of the current aims and instruments of this policy, which have never really proved their worth over the years. Mr Fischler is expected to again insist on the weaknesses of this policy (already largely described in his "Green Paper" on the future of the fisheries sector) such as the alarming state of certain stocks of demersal species (code, hake and whiting), or the precarious situation of the sector (over-investment, mediocre profitability and constant fall in employment). EUROPE has reason to believe that Commissioner Fischler will propose the following measures: - elimination of public aid to fleet renewal and aid allowing vessels to be exported to third countries; - tougher conditions for granting aid to fleet modernisation (to be authorised only for improving the security infrastructures of vessels and not for increasing engine power); - the establishment of a new mechanism for reducing the fishing effort (with reference limits to be respected); - the creation of multiannual plans for fish stock management (with target values for renewal and for the mortality rates caused by fishing).
Concerning access to waters and resources, the Commission is not expected to amend the principle of relative stability (which gives Member States guarantees for TAC and quota breakdown), but could under certain conditions authorise transfers of individual quotas. Mr Fischler may also suggest gradually extending, in Community waters, free access to the zone between 6 and 12 miles. As announced in its Green Paper, it is very likely that a common inspection structure will be set up, which would have the task of coordinating the policies and activities of Member States and of the Community with regards surveillance and control of respect of Community rules. Heavier sanctions should be suggested, such as the reduction of structural aid (FIFG - Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance), or the reduction of fishing quotas, should a Member State violate the provisions of the CFP. Furthermore, the Commission hopes there will be greater decentralisation of CFP management, mainly through the creation of regional advisory committees. The latter, which would be composed of national officials, representatives of the fishing industry, shipowners, NGOs, biologists and economists, would make it possible for operators in the fishing sector to be more actively involved in discussions concerning fisheries management.