Italy Stands Against Proposed EU Fishing Opportunities Regulation

13 Dec, 2023

Italy Stands Against Proposed EU Fishing Opportunities Regulation

The recent European agreement on fishing opportunities became a point of contention when Italy decided to oppose it. This agreement, known as the 2024 Fishing Opportunities Regulation, was forged during discussions among EU fisheries ministers held in Brussels. It encompasses various changes affecting fishing practices in the Atlantic, the North Sea, and notably in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea regions.

One of the key adjustments involves the reduction of maximum catch limits for shrimp. This reduction in catch limits extends to trawlers operating in the western Mediterranean, impacting their operational days at sea. This decision was a part of an effort to maintain sustainable fishing practices in these sensitive marine ecosystems.

Fisheries Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevicius highlighted the agreement's focus on the continuation of multi-year management plans for the Mediterranean. As part of these plans, there will be a significant 9.5% reduction in fishing efforts for bottom trawling. Furthermore, catch limits for deep-water shrimp are set to be further reduced, indicating a commitment to conservation in these vital fishing areas.

Interestingly, while the European Commission had proposed a 7% reduction in shrimp catch limits, the final agreement settled for a more moderate reduction at 3%. Sinkevicius also noted an extension of the compensation mechanism introduced in 2022. This extension guarantees additional fishing days for trawlers, ranging from 4.5% to 6%, depending on the implementation of extra conservation measures by member states.

Italy's dissenting vote signifies a divergence in perspective regarding these fishing regulations. This disagreement sheds light on the complexities of balancing economic interests with environmental sustainability in the fishing industry. The decision made during these EU discussions carries implications not only for Italy but for the broader European fishing community operating in these crucial marine regions.