EU maritime Green Paper in advanced stage

The preparations for a Green Paper on a new maritime policy for the European Union are at an advanced stage.

Sources close to European Commissioner Joe Borg's office told The Times yesterday the task force set up to draft the new policy is scheduled to meet more regularly in the coming weeks to finalise this blue print.

The sources said the Green Paper is expected to be published by June, at the latest, and will be followed by an extensive consultation exercise.

Last March, the European Commission announced its decision to launch a consultation process on a future maritime policy for the EU.

In a communication presented jointly by Commission President José Manuel Barroso and Dr Borg, who is responsible for fisheries and maritime affairs, the Commission said the contribution the sea makes to our livelihood and well-being is considerable as is the potential for economic growth. The challenge was to ensure that Europe makes the most of this potential in a sustainable manner.

The task force working on the new policy is made up of commissioners responsible for sea-related policies and chaired by Dr Borg. Following the publication of the Green Paper and the consultation process, the Commission will examine all the contributions and decide what shape and form the new policy should take before preparing proposals in this direction.