The Centre suggests that the proposal be withdrawn. In substance it would mean a higher level of risk for further decline or collapse for Baltic fisheries. The process leading up to the proposal was also deficient. For example, no analysis was made of the socio-economic consequences beyond the first year, of the higher risk level, not to mention the consequences for fish stocks or the environment.

The Commission’s justification for the amendment is based on a misunderstanding of both the science and of the logic and structure of the plan.

The decline of most fish stocks covered by the plan points instead to the need of a more conservation -oriented approach, instead of an even higher-risk approach.

Read the full response here:

Feedback to the EU Commission proposal to amend the Baltic MAP