Further calculations identified more clearly where the excess capacity was. Again, targets can be met by scrapping vessels or by reducing fishing effort. Member States can still decide how they are going to meet their objectives. As in previous multi-annual guidance programmes, targets have been calculated taking into account the objectives and the results of the previous MAGP, forcing those who had not met their targets to implement them this time round. The Commission remains concerned, however, about the impact of technological progress on the fishing capacity of the Community fleet.
New vessels have greater fishing power than old ones, thanks to advances in technology.
Member States will have to take this factor into account when deciding on how to meet their MAGP objectives. The objective was to reduce economic dependence on the fishing sector by helping to create and develop alternative activities, jobs and training programmes. In the summer of 1997, the Commission proposed a strategy for the European Union on the threshold of the 21st century. Entitled 'Agenda 2000', the proposal aimed to strengthen the Union and to prepare for the accession of new Members. Among other things, a reform of the Structural Funds was seen as necessary to adapt them to an enlarged Union.