MEP Attwooll calls change of approach to fisheries management 'premature at best'

2.27.38pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 7th Sep 2007

Speaking ahead of the European Parliament debate on 5 September on a report on Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) in fisheries, Lib Dem MEP Elspeth Attwooll endorsed the Rapporteur's conclusion that it was not appropriate to introduce this form of fisheries management without further research and the exploration of other options.

Elspeth commented:

"There are various problems to be resolved. It is not clear how the approach could be successfully applied to mixed fisheries and it is not suitable for pelagic species. We do not anyway have all the data needed to establish the point at which MSY would occur, even for a single demersal stock. The scientific community at large, too, seems to accept that the model is in need of major refinement".

She added:

"Of course we must take conservation of fish stocks seriously. But we have to be sure that the methods we use are fit for purpose and do not run the risk of being counter-productive. Particularly given the kind of fishing mainly engaged in by the Scottish fleet, I am encouraged that the report is taking such a robust approach to the issue. What are really needed are long term management plans for each individual stock".