Specific action for transfers of vessels to countries hit by the tsunami in 2004

PURPOSE: to provide support for transfers of vessels to countries in South-East Asia hit by the tsunami.

LEGISLATIVE ACT: Council Regulation 485/2005/EC amending Regulation 2792/1999/EC as regards a specific action for transfers of vessels to countries hit by the tsunami in 2004.

CONTENT: The Regulation allows Member States to transfer to these countries vessels that are between 5 and 20 years old, less than 12 metres in length and fully seaworthy.

This measure will have no financial impact on the Community budget as it will be entirely funded by the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance for 2000-2006 (FIFG).

The Regulation takes into account the level of equipment and seaworthiness of the vessels and seeks to avoid any adverse effects on fisheries resources and on the local economy. The transfer is limited to vessels not using towed gear.

This Regulation amends Regulation 2792/99/EC on structural assistance in the fisheries sector. The Council reached political agreement on its adoption on 28 February 2005.

ENTRY INTO FORCE: 02/04/2005.