Uta Bellion, director of the Pew Environment Group's EU Marine Programme, issued the following statement in response to the conclusion of the EU's Fisheries Council in Luxembourg which focused on the ongoing reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
“The Pew Environment Group shares Commissioner Damanaki's recognition of the need for a radical CFP reform. However, we do not agree that EU-wide transferable fishing rights will save European fisheries. Instead, the best way to ensure the viability of valuable fish stocks and fisheries dependent communities is through preferential fishing access to those who employ methods that benefit the environment.”