During a conference in the UK on 30 June, a lot of support emerged for a substantial change in the way decisions are made under the Common Fisheries Policy.
About 60 people met during a conference in London to discuss the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy. A range of speakers had been asked to present their views and thoughts, particularly on sections for and five of the Green Paper. Speakers covered areas such as priorities, the decision-making structure, the knowledge-base for the policy, the situation of coastal fisheries and the need for integration with EU environmental law. Mike Mitchell from the Seafood Company also talked about what processors would like to be able to offer to consumers and how the retail sector views fish today.
It quickly became clear that there was much agreement on what is wrong with the current policy, and that this reform period is really seen as the time for a fundamental change. It was also clear that a large majority would like to see a change in the decision-making structure. A three-tiered picture emerged, with Council and Parliament at the top, some regional seas body in between, and a more local component involving coastal fisheries at the grassroots end.
It was envisioned that strategic decisions would be taken at the top, but more detailed rules be dealt with as close to those affected as possible. It was argued that not only would this make decision-making more effective, but rules would be better targeted and acceptance would be greater, leading to improved compliance.
The Conference was held at SOAS, University of London, and was organised by Bob Earl and Communications and Management for Sustainability, known for the annual Coastal Futures events.