MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on changing the seasonal swordfish fishery closure
15.11.2011
Sergio Paolo Francesco Silvestris
B7‑0613/2011
Motion for a European Parliament resolution on changing the seasonal swordfish fishery closure
The European Parliament,
– having regard to current fisheries legislation,
– having regard to Rule 120 of its Rules of Procedure,
A. whereas in the Adriatic Sea the seasonal fishery closure for swordfish (October and November) is not working, because juvenile swordfish become trapped in the nets used to catch tuna, as evidenced by video footage filmed by the Monopoli Marine,
B. whereas the death of juvenile swordfish along the Adriatic coast is causing extensive damage to the sector, which is already undergoing serious economic difficulties,
C. whereas the European Union protects and promotes the renewal of fish stocks,
1. Calls on the Council and the Commission, at the suggestion of the Monopoli Marine, to move the seasonal swordfish fishery closure to between May and June – the breeding season – when there is there is a risk of catching pregnant females;
2. Calls on the Council and the Commission, to finance, through the European Fisheries Fund (EFF), research in the fisheries sector with a view to drawing up a restocking programme including temporary fishery closures that are effective and sustainable.