EU fisheries ministers greenlight major seafood boost in North Sea
Fishing enthusiasts across Europe are in for a treat, as EU officials approve substantial hikes in seafood quotas for various species in the North Sea. The heart of these increases concern popular stocks like herring, cod, saithe, haddock, and plaice, all of which are significant for Germany's trawler industry.
Charitable environmental organization Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) argues that the new quotas are falling short in terms of safeguarding critical fish populations, especially the vulnerable southern cod population nearby the German coast. In 2023, the herring catch limit will swell by 30%, with German boats allowed to snag over 48,500 tons next year. Additionally, haddock and cod will see their limits boosted by 66% and 12%, respectively.
On a brighter note, the increase in catch limit offers a successful case for sustainable management strategies implemented in recent years. The German Fishing Association deemed the surging catch quotas as positive signs, indicating a flourishing ecosystem and an improved food supply for fishermen and consumers alike.
"The quotas are completely insufficient for protecting vital fish populations," stated Sabine Bittner, Director of Marine Protection at DUH. The organization criticizes the revised cod quota, which amounts to 9,164 metric tons, representing a 12% increase from the 2022 limit. This quota covers multiple sub-populations, and the 12% increase undermines the fragile southern population off the German coast, which is facing severe threats.
Sustainable fishing practices remained at the forefront during these negotiations. As in the previous year, the EU's fisheries ministers agreed to retain the six-month closure period for eel fishing and continue banning recreational fishing for eels across the North and Baltic Seas. While this measure represents a positive step towards preserving their populations, the decision to expand glass eel fishing elicited sharp criticism from environmental groups, who argued that this expansion would further harm eel populations.
References:
- EU's cod-swap deal signals 'end of premium status'
- Norway accused of overfishing and breaking international law
- EU fisheries ministers to agree on mackerel catch limit in North Sea
- UK mackerel ban: legal challenge by boat owners throws spotlight on debate over fishing rights
Key Points from Enrichment Data:
- The EU is accused of setting quotas that don't adhere to "best available scientific advice" for sandeel fishing bans in English and Scottish Waters.
- Environmental groups protest against measures deployed by the EU and Norway to regulate the mackerel stock and address overfishing concerns.
- The market dynamics for cod and mackerel have shifted, and the EU is shifting its quotas accordingly.
- Disagreements emerged between stakeholders, such as the EU fishing industry, Norway, and the Faroe Islands, regarding mackerel subsidies and quotas.
- The EU implemented policies to promote sustainable fishing by promoting the Landing Obligation and monitoring compliance using cameras, however, the issue of enforcement remains contentious.
- EU fishing industry calls for the EU to proactively address subsidies that stress other countries' fishing industries and save vital EU public aid schemes and fuel tax relief schemes.
