First ever multi-annual management plan for fisheries in the Western Mediterranean becomes reality

Longer-term rules allowing for better protection of fish stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea are being introduced for the first time. The aim of these rules is to revitalise depleted stocks and ensure environmental and socio-economic sustainability for fisheries in the area.

The Council today formally adopted a new regulation establishing a multiannual management plan for demersal stocks (i.e. those that live at the bottom of the seabed) in an area covering mainly French, Italian and Spanish waters.

The main measures in the plan include quantifiable fishing efforts for the key fish stocks for all trawl vessels operating in the western Mediterranean, but they also allow for some flexibility to take account of mixed fisheries.

More details HERE