MEP calls for flexibility in EU fisheries funding

Maltese MEP David Casa has argued that funding to the fisheries sector should be based on an integrated local approach, centred on a relevant territorial strategy and adapted to the local situation.

This would apply the same principles as other structural funds, including part-financing and concentrating on the least-favoured regions and those most under threat from the impact of fish stock recovery measures.

Speaking at a meeting of the European Parliament's fisheries committee in Brussels, he added that EU funding to the fisheries sector must be adapted to the needs of the fishing and aquaculture industry.

Funding must help implement the major changes under this reform aimed at obtaining sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture, he said.

The fishing sector's contribution to the gross national product of member states is highly significant as a source of employment, he stressed.

He added, however, that the proposal tabled by the Commission does not provide flexibility for the allocation of funds.

"It is vital that new member states in particular are given the opportunity to be flexible when funds are distributed.

"As it stands today, the mechanism proposed by the commission will result in inadequate funding for small states," he argued.