Common Fisheries Policy CFP: establishment of Regional Advisory Councils

The European Parliament adopted the report by Seán ONEACHTAIN (UEN, IRL) amending the proposal. The European Parliament argues, however, that the Commission's proposal is far too timid, especially as regards financing. The Commission's proposal foresees giving a maximum of EUR 100,000 to each of the 6 new RACs in the first year, phasing out all financing after 3 years. MEPs support a maximum of EUR 500,000, thereby giving RACs the capacity to conduct their own research. They also argue that RACs - as non-profit organisations - will require permanent financial support, not just short-term help. The creation of two additional RACs concerning the stocks of tunas and distant waters was proposed by the Parliament. The Parliament also called for a clearer status for RACs, each of which should be a "legally incorporated non-commercial body" registered in a Member-State. Other amendments gave RACs powers to send observers to any meetings, at national or EU level, where stocks in their geographical area are being discussed. MEPs also underlined that the Commission should be present at all RAC meetings.�