Incidental catches of cetaceans (A7-0042/2013 - Raül Romeva i Rueda)
Claude Moraes (S&D), in writing. − Marine mammal populations have decreased dramatically in recent years, and tens of thousands of mammals die every year in EU waters. The current Regulation 812/2004 has serious shortcomings in terms of the protection of cetacean habitats, underwater noise pollution and collision with vessels. A new overarching framework similar to the US Marine Mammal Protection Act should be explored. In the meantime, this report is an important step in the right direction.