October 20, 2010
Spain gets a new environment minister
The big news in Spain today is a huge ministry reshuffle by the Zapatero government. This move means that Rosa Aguilar has ousted Elena Espinosa as the new Minister for Environmental, Rural and Marine Affairs.
Given the current state of the oceans, the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy on the table, and the seemingly insatiable and ever growing world appetite for seafood, it is a critical time for European fisheries. It is our hope that Rosa Aguilar acts quickly to ensure the protection and conservation of marine biodiversity – it is the only way to ensure the economic viability of long-term fisheries.
We are hopeful that this new appointment will be a step for marine conservation in Spain, towards a new fisheries policy and stricter compliance with international agreements and commitments adopted.