Fishing Opportunities in the Baltic Sea For 2017
The European Commission has tabled its proposal on fishing opportunities in the Baltic Sea for 2017. The proposal is based on the recently adopted multi-annual fisheries management plan for the Baltic Sea, and takes into consideration scientific advice received in May 2016.
The Commission proposes to increase catch limits for 6 out of 10 fish stocks (Western, Bothnian and Central herring, sprat, plaice and main basin salmon) and to decrease catch limits for 2 stocks (Gulf of Riga herring and Gulf of Finland salmon). The Commission is collecting more information before proposing catch limits for the remaining 2 stocks (Western and Eastern cod).
Commissioner Karmenu Vella, responsible for the Environment, Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, says: “Making Europe’s fisheries sustainable is a key deliverable of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy. The fishing opportunities proposed today are set with this objective firmly in mind. This is good news for all those who have an interest in healthy fisheries, first and foremost fishermen themselves.”
In socio-economic terms the Commission proposal should improve overall economic performance in the Baltic Sea as a whole, in spite of significant differences across fleets segments and fisheries. This proposal could increase both profits by €13 million and employment. The proposal will be discussed by Member States’ fisheries ministers at the October Fisheries Council in Luxembourg.
