Common fisheries policy: fisheries control situation

Parliament has always been keen for fisheries to be monitored more closely. It is therefore no surprise that the report by James PROVAN (EPP, UK), which was adopted by the Committee, should welcome the fact that the Commission has responded to Parliament's demands by publishing a paper on the monitoring of fisheries under the common fisheries policy (CFP). The committee highlights five priorities which are needed to improve the CFP and regain the confidence of fishermen. Firstly, the Community fisheries inspectorate should be strengthened so that it can improve and expand its inspections. Secondly, common definitions of tonnage, engine power, etc. should be established. Thirdly, tougher checks on vessels of non-EU countries are needed; these should not stop at the point where catches are landed but should continue throughout the supply chain up to the final consumer. Fourthly, effective controls in markets are essential, so as to prevent fraudulent imports. Lastly, the Commission should use all available instruments, including legal action and financial penalties, to ensure that Member States abide by all the provisions of the existing regulations.�