EU moves towards sanctions
THE EUROPEAN Union is set to adopt measures that could see sanctions being imposed against Iceland and Faroe for their stance in the conflict over mackerel fishing rights in the northeast Atlantic.
The proposals which would authorise the European Commission to impose a range of measures against third countries that allow unsustainable fishing still need approval from the European Parliament and the European Council.
Fisheries commissioner Maria Damanaki said: “This is a groundbreaking measure. If backed by member states and the European Parliament, we will have for the first time an effective legal instrument to help us secure the conservation of fish stocks that the EU shares with other countries.”
The move was welcomed by the Scottish government. Fisheries secretary Richard Lochhead said: “For more than a year we have been asking the Commission to bring forward concrete measures for sanctions, to address excessive mackerel fishing by Faroes and Iceland, outwith an international agreement.
“Our priority continues to be securing an international agreement for the fishery in 2012; however we cannot stand back while this valuable stock is plundered.
“If we are to ensure mackerel is sustainably fished and Scottish industry safeguarded, it’s critical that we have power to use sanctions, as and when required.”
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