Small fishing vessels in the Kattegat
28.2.2023
Question for written answer E-000648/2023
to the Commission
Rule 138
Asger Christensen (Renew), Pernille Weiss (PPE), Anders Vistisen (ID)
Last year, the TAC Quota Regulation laid down a number of requirements for selective panels in demersal fisheries in the Kattegat. These also applied to vessels under 10 metres in length, which had previously been exempt.
The aim was to protect cod stocks.
The problem is, however, that small-scale fishers in the Kattegat are losing out massively in terms of their catches as it is not possible for small boats with less powerful engines to lift the heavy selective panels while keeping the catch in the net. As a result there have been huge decreases in catches of non-endangered species, especially plaice and sole, with devastating economic consequences for smaller vessels.
- 1.How does the Commission justify the fact that the same very restrictive rules on selective gear apply to both large and small vessels?
- 2.Does the Commission have immediate plans to relax the requirements for selective gear in the Kattegat for small vessels under 10 metres in length?
- 3.Is the Commission aware that these strict requirements mean it is impossible for small vessels in the Kattegat to fish in an economically viable manner?
Submitted: 28.2.2023