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Parliamentary question - E-012638/2015Parliamentary question
E-012638/2015

Decline in pilchard and anchovy stocks in connection with the tuna recovery plan

Question for written answer E-012638-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Ramon Tremosa i Balcells (ALDE)

Reports from right across the fishing industry, recreational fishing associations and private individuals show that the recovery plan for tuna is working more effectively than expected, and that schools of small and medium-sized tuna are now a very common sight. This could have negative consequences for fisheries of the species that tuna feed on.

In the light of their yearly reports on the state of small pelagic fish stocks (specifically Sardina pilchardus and Engraulis encrasicolus), the Spanish Oceanography Institute and the French Research Institute for Exploitation of the Sea have observed a worrying decline in those stocks.

This can also be seen in the sales notes from first sales of fish corresponding to landed catches and sales at fish markets and authorised outlets, which have been sent to Brussels since 2000.

Is the Commission aware of this situation?

Does the Commission intend to come forward with a package of remedial management measures, such as a recovery plan?