EC/Seychelles fisheries agreement: protocol for the period from 18 January 1999 to 17 January 2002

PURPOSE: to conclude a protocol defining, for the period from 18/01/99 to 17/01/2002, the fishing opportunities and the financial contribution provided for by the Agreement between the European Community and the Republic of Seychelles on fishing off Seychelles. CONTENT: this protocol, initialled by the two parties on 21/12/98, sets out the allocation of fishing licences for 47 Tuna seiners and 32 surface longliners to operate in Seychelles waters. These fishing possibilities are allocated between Spain, France, Italy, the UK and France. If licence applications from these Member States do not exhaust the fishing possibilities provided for, the Commission may entertain licence applications from any other Member State. For its part, the Republic of Seychelles is granted financial compensation of EURO 2.300.000 per year, corresponding to a catch of 46.000 tonnes of tuna. If the catch by Community vessels in Seychelles' waters exceeds this amount, the Community shall increase the financial compensation proportionately. During the period covered by the protocol, the European Community shall contribute a further EURO 3.450.000 to finance measures in the following areas: - scientific and technical programmes in the Seychelles to gain greater knowledge of fish stocks in the region; - purchase or maintenance or both of equipment to improve the administrative structure relating to fisheries in Seychelles; - study grants, practical training courses and attendance of international meetings related to fishing; - setting up and devloping a satellite tracking system; - setting up a fund aiming at developing the local longliners fleet. The protocol also contains an annex setting out conditions for the pursuit of fishing activities by Community vessels to fish in Seychelles' waters, covering licence application and issuing formalities, validity of licences and payment, declaration of catches, observers, employment of seamen, landing, communications, fishing zone, port equipment and use of supplies and services, and sanctions.�