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March 6, 2012

Spain should lead the way in the sustainable exploitation of fish resources in Europe

© OCEANA / LX

 

Spain is a major player in the European fishing industry (with 13% of the vessels and 15% of production) and the sustainable management of fish resources on its part could be a major influence on other EU countries.

With that in mind, Oceana has sent the Spanish Minister of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Miguel Arias Cañete, the priorities we expect to see fulfilled by the new administration. These issues include supporting an effective reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, the fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and Spain’s role in the management of ICCAT species. In addition, we suggest that Spain take the lead in the international management and conservation of sharks and of marine biodiversity.

Is that a lot to ask? We don’t think so, not when the future of Spain and Europe’s resources, and the health of European marine ecosystems are at stake.