Continuing delays in the implementation of the fisheries agreement with Morocco

27.8.2014

Question for written answer P-006391-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Clara Eugenia Aguilera García (S&D)

The Protocol between the EU and Morocco setting out the fishing opportunities and financial contribution provided for in the EU-Morocco fisheries agreement was published in the Official Journal on 7 December 2013.

The Spanish fleet concerned, based in the Gulf of Cádiz, Galicia, and the Canary Islands, has been hit since then by the delayed entry into force of the agreement. The delays have had to do with ratification of the Protocol, firstly by the EU and secondly by Morocco, which did not ratify it until July. However, Andalusian, Galician, and Canary Island shipowners still cannot fish in Moroccan waters.

For the last two years and eight months the fleet affected and other sectors indirectly involved in fishing have had to bear economic and labour costs because the agreement has not entered into force. They received aid only in the first twelve months. In some cases, moreover, activity is at a standstill even though fishing licences were paid for at the outset.

Can the Commission say why the agreement still cannot enter into force?

How is it possible that, even when they have paid for their licences, European shipowners still cannot operate in Moroccan fishing-grounds?

Will aid be provided if the next meeting of the EU-Morocco Joint Committee fails to break the deadlock?