Regulation of seal stocks
24.2.2014
Question for written answer E-002130-14
to the Commission
Rule 117
Claus Larsen-Jensen (S&D) , Ole Christensen (S&D)
The initiatives for the conservation and protection of seal stocks in the Baltic Sea, the waters around Denmark and the Danish fjords have proved so effective that species which were once endangered have now grown to such an extent that they pose a risk of overfishing and a threat to viable coastal fisheries in Danish waters and fjords, for example in North Jutland and on Bornholm.
With that in mind, there is now some uncertainty about whether seal stocks may be regulated in line with the international agreements which have been concluded in this area, including the Habitats Directive and other relevant EU legislation.
Can the Commission please confirm:
- 1.that there is nothing in the Habitats Directive on in other relevant EU legislation to prevent the regulation of stocks of the common seal (Phoca vitulina) and the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus), provided that this is done in a responsible manner allowing for the continued protection and sustainable development of the species?
- 2.that the Member States have the power to issue permits for the regulation of seal stocks in so far as these cause significant damage to other species and/or socioeconomic interests?
OJ C 365, 15/10/2014