EU fisheries back Mediterranean plan changes

Europêche has welcomed a European Parliament Committee on Fisheries vote calling for a targeted revision of the Multiannual Plan governing demersal stocks in the western Mediterranean, arguing that current rules place significant pressure on fishing businesses and coastal communities.

The resolution calls for management measures to better reflect mixed fisheries, where multiple species are caught together, rather than allowing the most vulnerable stock to determine fishing opportunities across the wider fishery. Proposed changes include transferring up to 10% of unused fishing effort between years and capping annual reductions in fishing days at 20%.

“The PECH vote sends a clear message that the western Mediterranean plan needs to be adapted as a matter of urgency,” said Javier Garat, president of Europêche.

“The plan’s current framework and implementation have contributed to declining employment in the sector. Fishers have made substantial efforts to support stock recovery, but sustainability also depends on viable businesses, secure jobs and resilient coastal communities.”

The committee also called for socioeconomic considerations, including employment, fishers’ incomes, business viability, seafood supply and food security, to feature more prominently in fisheries decisions. It highlighted the need for improved scientific data, particularly research into climate change and invasive species, alongside stronger controls on non-EU fleets to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

The resolution recognises efforts by fishing fleets, particularly Mediterranean trawlers, to improve sustainability through technological innovation and more selective fishing gear. However, Europêche said successive reductions in fishing days and expanding area closures have imposed a substantial social and economic burden on the sector.

Specific attention was given to the red shrimp fishery, which faces both fishing-day restrictions and quotas. The committee called on the European Commission to review these arrangements, with a view to retaining the fishing-days regime while removing the quota.

Europêche is urging the Commission to present its revision proposal promptly and ensure the resolution’s recommendations are considered at the December Council meeting.