Implementation of technical measures in the common fisheries policy

OBJECTIVE: to provide a summary of the results of all current technical measures in the common fisheries policy, together with an indication of related problems and probable future action. CONTENT: the Commission notes that the implementation of technical measures, the main purpose of which is to allow the number of juveniles caught to be reduced to a minimum, has not resulted in the level of protection for juveniles and by-catches hoped for. However, it notes that there has been a change in attitude on the part of fishermen's representatives, at least in certain Member States (such as the United Kingdom) where there is now a demand for stricter technical measures. This constructive approach will help to inform proposals made by the Commission. Shortcomings in the texts partly explain current failures, but the Commission notes that they have only played a minor role in comparison with the two main causes: overcapacities resulting in highly intensive fishing and inadequate control. An examination of provisions adopted outside the Community has demonstrated that there is no panacea which the Common Fisheries Policy has overlooked. Continuity is therefore needed. Current measures need to be improved and the Commission will address this by making suitable proposals, although these proposals will merely reflect prevailing scientific opinion, i.e. that mesh sizes need to be increased. They will therefore need to take account of proposals by the industry and be innovative. However, technical measures will only be effective if they are integrated into an overall policy. Exploitation rates need to be reduced by directly reducing both capacities and fishing efforts. Control systems need to be much more efficient. 1996, during which the Council will decide on how its previous commitments on technical measures have been followed up, will be a crucial year.�