EU takes another step towards new maritime policy

Maritme experts from member states have concluded a three-day conference hosted by the German EU presidency, in Bremen, to take stock of the progress made so far towards a new maritime policy for the EU.

The task is being coordinated by Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Commissioner Joe Borg, who addressed the participants and gave a presentation on the state of play of the consultation process on a Green Paper issued on the subject a few months ago.

Dr Borg said the Maritime Policy Green Paper has struck a chord throughout Europe.

"After 10 months of intense public consultation it is fair to say that there is broad support, and indeed enthusiasm, for the main ideas put forward. Encouraged by this debate, the Commission will in October present a package of proposals towards a new integrated maritime policy for the Union that will cut across all policy areas and link them together."

The conference was also addressed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and by the President of the European Commission Josè Manuel Barroso.

About 600 participants at the conference reviewed the preliminary results of the process of consultation.

Published by the Commission in June 2006, the Green Paper is an integral part of the EU's policy of promoting sustainable development in Europe in the 21st century. The Green Paper explores the potential benefits of a holistic approach to policy development and planning that would transcend the current sectoral approach to maritime-based activities and decision-making so as to maximise synergies and prevent inter-users conflicts. In this way, it would be possible to promote growth and employment in the maritime sector, while ensuring that the marine environment is protected for the benefit of all, and also for future generations.

The consultation exercise is one of the largest ever launched by the Commission and will run until the end of June. Participation to date has been broad-based, with 141 written contributions received so far from coastal regions, industry associations, scientific institutions and NGOs, as well as from individual citizens. There have been 231 events touching on issues raised in the Green Paper across Europe, organised and funded by interested parties.

Malta participated at this conference with a delegation headed by Malta Maritime Authority chairman Marc Bonello.

The Times Business supplement has been running a series of features about the Green Paper and its implications for Malta every fortnight since March 8. The next is due on May 17.