Brussels, 18/04/2007 (Agence Europe) - On 12 April, the European Commission adopted formal proposals on the new fisheries partnership agreement between the EU and the Republic of Kiribati (see EUROPE 9237 on the signature of the arrangements between the parties). After adoption by the EU
Council of Ministers, after the European Parliament has given its opinion, the fisheries agreement will come into force for six years and may be renewed.
The new agreement provides for 6,400 tonnes of tuna to be caught per year by four purse seine vessels (Spanish and French) and 12 surface long-liners (six Spanish and six Portuguese). Depending on the management decisions taken by the parties in the context of the Palau Arrangement, the number of purse seine licences could be increased. The EU vessels' fishing effort in the Kiribati Exclusive Economic Zone will have to be in line with appropriate tuna stock assessments based on scientific criteria.
The EU financial contribution remains at €478,400 per year. During the first year, 30% of the financial contribution will be allocated to initiatives to support local fishing. This will increase to 40% in the second year and to 60% thereafter. (lc)