Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the ‘European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF)’
Date: 2012-10-09
Institutions: European Committee of the Regions
Subjects: aquaculture, common fisheries policy, financial aid, fishery resources, fishing area, innovation, marine ecosystem, shipping policy, sustainable development








C_2012391EN.01008401.xml










18.12.2012   


EN


Official Journal of the European Union


C 391/84





Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the ‘European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF)’
2012/C 391/10
THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS






—


approves the setting-up of the new fund, the EMFF, to implement the CFP and considers that it is important to maintain the budget necessary to keep pace with the changes imposed by the CFP;










—


welcomes the simplification introduced by the regrouping within the new EMFF of most of the financial instruments of the CFP and the Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP), which had previously been distributed among several funds;










—


asks that the EMFF's objectives be focused on fishing and not, as has been stated on several occasions, on giving priority to its replacement by other activities and considers it important to increase the attractiveness of the fishing profession;










—


is concerned about the cuts in the budget for data collection at a time when additional resources are needed. Having data available that is complete and processed for management purposes should be a precondition for the PCP and a budget priority for the EMFF;










—


condemns the abolition of any fleet adjustment measures, at a time when compliance with the new objectives of the CFP, particularly the progressive achievement of MSY, will require decommissioning or temporary stoppages;










—


considers that the introduction of the gradual reduction of discards will require the adaptation and modernisation of fishing vessels and appropriate investments in ports;










—


is amazed at the lack of funding for the preparation of the multi-year plans provided for;










—


asks that significant aid be given to technological innovation and investments which increase the selectivity of fishing gear;










—


considers that the phasing-out of storage aid is irrelevant.










Rapporteur


Mr Pierre MAILLE (FR/PES), President of the General Council of Finistère




Reference document


Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund [repealing Council Regulation (EC) No. 1198/2006, Council Regulation (EC) No. 861/2006 and Council Regulation (EC) No. XXX/2011 on integrated maritime policy]
COM(2011) 804 final




I.   POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS:






1.


is satisfied, given the importance of fishing for many regions of the European Union, that the Commission wishes to maintain a Common Fisheries Policy (CFP);










2.


approves the setting-up of the new fund, the EMFF, to implement the CFP and considers that it is important to maintain the budget necessary to keep pace with the changes imposed by the CFP;










3.


considers that the CFP's priority must be to re-establish sustainable economic conditions for fisheries, within an ecosystem approach, by achieving maximum sustainable yield (MSY), and also to ensure supplies for European consumers by moving towards self-sufficiency in food;










4.


welcomes the simplification introduced by the regrouping within the new EMFF of most of the financial instruments of the CFP and the Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP), which had previously been distributed among several funds;










5.


approves the incorporation of the IMP into the EMFF since economic activities, respect for the environment, knowledge acquisition and data collection, monitoring and control are interrelated;










6.


would, however, like the conditions for the direct management of the IMP to be better defined so as to clarify where appropriations are to go and which bodies are to receive aid;










7.


recognises the value of the proposed Common Strategic Framework for the cohesion funds (ERDF, ESF, Cohesion Fund, EAFRD, EMFF) which should make for simplification, consistency and pooled arrangements for managing these funds;










8.


asks that the EU be given a sufficiently large budget to ensure the effectiveness of cohesion policy and fulfil the ambitions of the Europe 2020 strategy;










9.


welcomes the possibility for the Member States and Regions using the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund, the ESF or the EMFF to take action in the field of fisheries and the development of territories dependent on fishing;










10.


asks that, in accordance with the principles of multilevel governance and respect for the national distribution of terms of reference, the local and regional authorities in each Member State be fully involved in the preparation, negotiation, implementation and review of the various strategic documents, including those relating to an integrated maritime policy;










11.


rejects the proposals to link cohesion policy with respecting the stability and growth pact, as the objectives of macroeconomic conditionality are not the same as those of cohesion policy;










12.


supports the principle of ex ante conditionality, so as to ensure that the preconditions of respecting the objectives of the CFP are met on the basis of past experiences;










13.


wants the consequences of the changes to the criteria for allocating resources between Member States to be evaluated, since these criteria are different from those used previously for the EFF;










14.


points out that in its opinion on CFP reform it was against the obligation to require each Member State to establish transferable fishing concessions (TFCs) and hoped that the reduction of discards would be introduced gradually;










15.


approves of the importance given to improving knowledge and data collection and emphasises the value of the partnership between fishermen and scientists. Having data available that is complete and processed for management purposes should be a precondition for the PCP and a budget priority for the EMFF;










16.


condemns the abolition of any fleet adjustment measures, at a time when compliance with the new objectives of the CFP, particularly the progressive achievement of MSY, will require decommissioning or temporary stoppages. Would like this to be possible, at least for some fisheries, by providing for strict supervisory measures, especially as regards fishing rights, and, possibly, a gradual decrease of aid in line with trends in stocks;










17.


considers it important to increase the attractiveness of the fishing profession by improving working conditions, health and safety on board and funding the investments necessary, without limiting them to one operation per vessel;










18.


notes that TFCs are voluntary. Considers that the EMFF should accompany their creation by financing advice, experience sharing and transitional measures;










19.


is amazed at the lack of funding for the preparation of the multi-year plans provided for, as they are a major tool set up by the basic CFP regulation for the proper management of resources and the marine environment;










20.


approves of the reduction of discards and unwanted catches and asks that significant aid be given to technological innovation and investments which increase the selectivity of fishing gear;










21.


considers that technological developments can help one and the same vessel in several ways to improve selectivity, reduce its impact on the marine environment and provide a high level of safety for seamen, provided that the equipment in question is not superfluous and represents genuine progress without increasing the overall amount of fishing;










22.


approves of the support given to fishermen when they take part in the protection and restoration of biodiversity and marine ecosystems. This support must enable their involvement in fisheries management measures especially in Natura 2000 sites and protected marine areas, such as temporary cessation schemes, licensing, etc. Since fishermen are not solely responsible for protecting the marine environment, the EMFF must not be used to directly fund the management of these areas or their environmental monitoring;










23.


considers that the fishing industry must also help to combat global warming and pollution. The EMFF must be able to support research and innovation in order to have greater efficiency and fewer CO2 emissions, especially when the price of fuel has made the activity less competitive. It is therefore necessary to be able to help vessels replace their engines and allow the fishing industry to benefit from the technological advances in this field;










24.


considers that the introduction of the gradual reduction of discards will require the adaptation and modernisation of fishing vessels and appropriate investments in ports;










25.


opposes the development of a production chain of fish meal made from discards, but asks that calls for innovative efforts focusing on the proper identification of various types of discards so that action can be taken to reduce them and ensure their appropriate utilisation;










26.


welcomes the Commission's commitment to the local development of fisheries areas. It asks that the EMFF's objectives be focused on fishing and not, as has been stated on several occasions, on giving priority to its replacement by other activities. The EMFF should support a more balanced approach, without dissociating diversification and the maintenance of direct and indirect jobs, and without forgetting the need to provide jobs for the younger generation. In particular, the regulation must allow start-up aid to help young people engage in fishing, as provided for in aquaculture, whereas the wish to introduce TFCs may make access to the profession even more difficult;










27.


considers that local development can only succeed by mobilising and instilling a strong sense of partnership among local actors, politicians and local authorities, professional associations, fishermen's organisations, etc. This sense of partnership may be achieved by the spread of Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) or by enlarging the LAGs created in the context of measures inspired by the EAFRD to cover fisheries issues. Governance of the FLAGs must lie with the local and regional authorities who, together with the regions, must play an important role in defining and implementing the objectives of local development strategy as well as in managing funds;










28.


asks that more support be provided for fish trading and processing firms in order to promote value added fisheries products and to improve the structure of the sector's downstream activities: technological innovations, productivity gains can be encouraged and accompanied, without being limited to one per firm;










29.


suggests that more ambition should be shown in developing a European certification scheme for seafood products: the consumer must be able to identify the products of European fisheries, and know the efforts made to respect biodiversity and the health standards required by the CFP;










30.


considers that the CMO market measures must contribute towards the achievement of the CFP's objectives. It therefore asks if market tools can be set up to limit the impact of the transition to MSY and maintain local economic outlets for European fisheries products;










31.


considers that the phasing-out of storage aid is irrelevant when you consider the significant production and marketing variables affecting professional fishing;










32.


welcomes the significant encouragement given to aquaculture and the many steps in its favour: the setting-up of young people, innovation, investments, management, relief and advisory services, insurance, etc.;










33.


calls for demanding standards to be set as regards environmental conditions, the knowledge of inputs for farming and the extent of the impact on the environment;










34.


considers that aquaculture must remain a net producer of fish proteins and not lead to the overfishing of species that are useful for the feeding of farmed fish, thereby running the risk of upsetting the balance in the food chain and or adversely affecting biodiversity;










35.


supports the possibility of encouraging the production of seaweed, whether for food purposes or not;










36.


considers that the outermost regions are all in situations recognised as being more difficult than the rest of Europe. This means that more should be done than just giving aid for the marketing of products, in order to cover the additional costs facing the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in these territories;










37.


also requests that the EMFF really take into account the need to develop fisheries in the outermost regions by allowing aid to be provided for fleet renewal;










38.


considers that the implementation of measures to support the installation of fish aggregating devices is important for the development of a sustainable coastal fishing industry in the outermost regions;










39.


proposes the setting-up of a regional advisory council (RAC) for the outermost regions along the lines of those that already exist in continental Europe;










40.


draws attention to the need for more effective controls in order to ensure that everyone respects the CFP regulations. If controls are to be credible, then the budget for them has to be adjusted accordingly and new more effective methods of control identified;










41.


is concerned about the cuts in the budget for data collection at a time when additional resources are needed, since the achievement of MSY for all stocks requires the collection of additional data, as there are still many stocks about which little is known; suggests that the EMFF's contribution in this area be increased to 80 % of eligible expenses;










42.


considers that RACs require clear and permanent support, particularly for their role of proposing scientific studies or management measures adapted to fisheries issues, so that the objectives of regionalisation are fully implemented;










43.


is highly committed to informing EU citizens and consumers about the EU's policies and how its funds are used. It approves the transparency sought by providing a website with information about results, operations undertaken and EMFF beneficiaries;










44.


considers it important to provide plenty of information about the EMFF's new instruments to potential beneficiaries so as to ensure that this fund is used properly;










45.


considers that the Commission's use of delegated acts is excessive and recommends laying down a regulation which establishes most, if not all, of the rules for implementation right from the start;










46.


draws attention to the difficulties linked to the timetable for the adoption of the various decisions that have a bearing on the EMFF:






a)


The discussions on the Commission proposal for the multiannual financial framework 2014-2020 are not yet concluded. It is important that the level of the budget allocated to the EMFF be preserved;










b)


The CFP's guidelines are not known for sure, and several topics are still being debated (achievement of MSY, prohibition of discards, obligation to create transferable fishing concessions, banning of aid for decommissioning plans or temporary cessations …);














47.


therefore considers that the current draft of the EMFF regulation will still have to undergo significant changes before it can be adopted.




II.   AMENDMENTS


Amendment 1

Recital 9






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment










(9)


It is paramount to better integrate environmental concerns into the CFP which should deliver on the objectives and targets of the Union's environmental policy and the Europe 2020 Strategy. The CFP is aimed at an exploitation of living marine biological resources that restores and maintains fish stocks at levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield, not later than 2015. The CFP shall implement the precautionary and eco-system approaches to fisheries management. Consequently the EMFF should contribute to the protection of the marine environment as set out in the Directive 2008/56/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 17 June 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy (Marine Strategy Framework Directive).












(9)


It is paramount to better integrate environmental concerns into the CFP which should deliver on the objectives and targets of the Union's environmental policy and the Europe 2020 Strategy. The CFP is aimed at an exploitation of living marine biological resources that restores and maintains fish stocks at levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield,  2015. The CFP shall implement the precautionary and eco-system approaches to fisheries management. Consequently the EMFF should contribute to the protection of the marine environment as set out in the Directive 2008/56/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 17 June 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy (Marine Strategy Framework Directive).









Reason

The CFP basic regulation states that MSY should be achieved by 2015 if possible. This paragraph should remind readers of that nuance.

Amendment 2

Recital 37






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment










(37)


As a result of the establishment of systems of transferable fishing concessions envisaged in Article 27 of the [CFP Regulation] and in order to support Member States in the implementation of these new systems, the EMFF should grant support in terms of capacity building and exchange of best practices.












(37)


As a result of the  establishment of systems of transferable fishing concessions envisaged in Article 27 of the [CFP Regulation] and in order to support Member States in the implementation of these new systems, the EMFF should grant support  capacity  and exchange of best practices.









Reason

Transferable fishing concessions must be optional and left to the discretion of the Member States.

Amendment 3

Recital 38






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment










(38)


The introduction of the transferable fishing concessions systems should make the sector more competitive. Consequently, there may be a need for new professional opportunities outside the fishing activities. Therefore, the EMFF should support the diversification and job creation in fishing communities in particular by supporting business start-ups and the reassignment of vessels for maritime activities outside fishing activities of small scale coastal fishing vessels. This last operation seems to be appropriate as the small scale coastal fishing vessels are not covered by the transferable fishing concessions systems.












(38)


The  introduction of the transferable fishing concessions systems should make the sector more competitive. Consequently, there may be a need for new professional opportunities outside the fishing activities. Therefore, the EMFF should support the diversification and job creation in fishing communities in particular by supporting  business start-ups and the reassignment of vessels for maritime activities outside fishing activities of small scale coastal fishing vessels. 









Reason

Transferable fishing concessions must be optional and left to the discretion of the Member States.
Aid for the installation of young fishermen is required to ensure a renewal of the generations and encourage the arrival of new seamen who are better trained and aware of the issues at stake as regards more assertive resource management.

Amendment 4

Recital 39






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment










(39)


The objective of the Common Fisheries Policy is to ensure a sustainable exploitation of fish stocks. Overcapacity has been identified as a major driver for overfishing. It is therefore paramount to adapt the Union fishing fleet to the resources available. The removal of overcapacity through public aid such as temporary or permanent cessation and scrapping schemes has proven ineffective. The EMFF will therefore support the establishment and management of systems of transferable fishing concessions aiming at the reduction of overcapacity and increased economic performance and profitability of the operators concerned.












(39)


The objective of the Common Fisheries Policy is to ensure a sustainable exploitation of fish stocks. Overcapacity has been identified as a major driver for overfishing. It is therefore paramount to adapt the Union fishing fleet to the resources available. The removal of overcapacity through public aid such as temporary or permanent cessation and scrapping schemes . The EMFF will therefore support the establishment and management of systems of transferable fishing concessions aiming at the reduction of overcapacity and increased economic performance and profitability of the operators concerned.









Reason

Plans to adapt the fishing industry which involve aid for the decommissioning of vessels must not be ruled out. Aided decommissioning will make it possible to reduce fishing capacity where the circumstances are difficult (resource depletion, etc.) and thus avoid a transfer of activity to healthy fisheries. Such aid should be maintained by ensuring that attention is paid to the actual conditions under which fishing is reduced, i.e. by making such aid subject to a withdrawal of fishing rights.

Amendment 5

Recital 41






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment










(41)


It is paramount to integrate environmental concerns into the EMFF and support the implementation of conservation measures under the CFP taking however into account the diverse conditions throughout the Union waters. For this purpose it is essential to develop a regionalised approach to conservation measures.












(41)


It is paramount to integrate environmental concerns into the EMFF and support the implementation of conservation measures under the CFP taking however into account the diverse conditions throughout the Union waters. For this purpose it is essential to develop a regionalised approach to conservation measures.








 





















Reason

It is important to strengthen the role of river and lake eco-corridors, for example by removing any barriers in rivers, so as to ensure that migratory fish can complete their life-cycle.

Amendment 6

Recital 62






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment










(62)


Priority should be given to producer organisations and associations of producer organisations by granting them support. The compensation for storage aid and aid for production and marketing plans should gradually be phased out as the importance of this particular kind of support has lost its interest in the light of the evolving structure of the Union market for this kind of products and the growing importance of strong producer's organisations.












(62)


Priority should be given to producer organisations and associations of producer organisations by granting them support. 









Reason

The phasing-out of storage aid seems irrelevant when, under Article 15 of the basic CFP regulation, vessels will have to gradually land all their catches, including discards. It seems a good idea to provide for storage aid so as to enable the organisations to manage the quantities landed before placing a value on them.

Amendment 7

Article 3






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Article 3
Definitions


Article 3
Definitions




1.   For the purposes of this Regulation and without prejudice to paragraph 2, the definitions referred to in Article 5 of the [Regulation on the Common Fisheries Policy], Article 5 of the [Regulation on the Common Organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products] and Article 4 of the Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 and Article 2 of Regulation No [Regulation laying down Common Provisions] shall apply.


1.   For the purposes of this Regulation and without prejudice to paragraph 2, the definitions referred to in Article 5 of the [Regulation on the Common Fisheries Policy], Article 5 of the [Regulation on the Common Organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products] and Article 4 of the Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 and Article 2 of Regulation No [Regulation laying down Common Provisions shall apply.




2.   For the purpose of this Regulation, the following definitions shall apply:


2.   For the purpose of this Regulation, the following definitions shall apply:










(1)


‧Common Information Sharing Environment (CISE)‧ means a network of systems with a decentralised set-up developed for the exchange of information across users from different sectors to improve situational awareness of activities at sea;












(1)


‧Common Information Sharing Environment (CISE)‧ means a network of systems with a decentralised set-up developed for the exchange of information across users from different sectors to improve situational awareness of activities at sea;














(2)


‧cross-sectoral operations‧ means initiatives that mutually benefit different sectors and/or sectoral policies, as referred to in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and that cannot be accomplished entirely through measures encompassed within respective policy areas;












(2)


‧cross-sectoral operations‧ means initiatives that mutually benefit different sectors and/or sectoral policies, as referred to in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and that cannot be accomplished entirely through measures encompassed within respective policy areas;














(3)


‧electronic recording and reporting system‧ (ERS) means a system for the electronic recording and reporting of data as referred to in Articles 15, 24 and 63 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009;












(3)


‧electronic recording and reporting system‧ (ERS) means a system for the electronic recording and reporting of data as referred to in Articles 15, 24 and 63 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009;














(4)


‧European Marine Observation and Data Network‧ means a network that integrates national marine observation and data programmes into a common and accessible European resource;












(4)


‧European Marine Observation and Data Network‧ means a network that integrates national marine observation and data programmes into a common and accessible European resource;














(5)


‧fisheries area‧ means an area with sea or lake shore or including ponds or a river estuary with a significant level of employment in fisheries or aquaculture and designated as such by the Member State;












(5)


‧fisheries area‧ means an area with sea or lake shore or including ponds or a river estuary with a significant level of employment in fisheries or aquaculture and designated as such by the Member State;














(6)


‧fisherman‧ means any person engaging in professional fishing, as recognised by the Member State, on board of an operational fishing vessel or engaging in professional harvesting of marine organisms, as recognised by the Member State, without a vessel;












(6)


‧fisherman‧ means any person engaging in professional fishing, as recognised by the Member State, on board of an operational fishing vessel or engaging in professional harvesting of marine organisms, as recognised by the Member State, without a vessel;














(7)


‧Integrated Maritime Policy‧ (IMP) means a Union policy whose aim is to foster coordinated and coherent decision making to maximise the sustainable development, economic growth and social cohesion of Member States, and notably the coastal, insular and outermost regions in the Union, as well as maritime sectors, through coherent maritime-related policies and relevant international cooperation;












(7)


‧Integrated Maritime Policy‧ (IMP) means a Union policy whose aim is to foster coordinated and coherent decision making to maximise the sustainable development, economic growth and social cohesion of Member States, and notably the coastal, insular and outermost regions in the Union, as well as maritime sectors, through coherent maritime-related policies and relevant international cooperation;














(8)


‧Integrated Maritime Surveillance‧ is a EU initiative aiming to enhance effectiveness and efficiency in surveillance activities of the European seas through information exchange and collaboration across sectors and borders;












(8)


‧Integrated Maritime Surveillance‧ is a EU initiative aiming to enhance effectiveness and efficiency in surveillance activities of the European seas through information exchange and collaboration across sectors and borders;














(9)


‧irregularity‧ means irregularity as defined in Article 1(2) of the Council Regulation 2988/95;












(9)


‧irregularity‧ means irregularity as defined in Article 1(2) of the Council Regulation 2988/95;














(10)


‧inland fishing‧ means fishing carried out for commercial purposes by vessels operating exclusively in inland waters or by other devices used for ice fishing;












(10)


‧inland fishing‧ means fishing carried out for commercial purposes by vessels operating exclusively in inland waters or by other devices used for ice fishing;














(11)


‧integrated coastal zone management" means such strategies and measures as defined in the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council (2002/413/EC)of 30 May 2002 concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Europe;












(11)


‧integrated coastal zone management" means such strategies and measures as defined in the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council (2002/413/EC)of 30 May 2002 concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Europe;














(12)


‧integrated maritime governance‧ means the coordinated management of all sectoral policies of the EU affecting the oceans, seas, and coastal regions; 23 O.J. L 148 of 6.6.2002












(12)


‧integrated maritime governance‧ means the coordinated management of all sectoral policies of the EU affecting the oceans, seas, and coastal regions; 23 O.J. L 148 of 6.6.2002














(13)


‧marine regions‧ means the geographical areas set out in Annex I to Council Decision 2004/585/EC and the areas established by the regional fisheries management organisations;












(13)


‧marine regions‧ means the geographical areas set out in Annex I to Council Decision 2004/585/EC and the areas established by the regional fisheries management organisations;














(14)


‧maritime spatial planning‧ means a process by which public authorities analyse and allocate the spatial and temporal distribution of human activities in marine areas to achieve ecological, economic and social objectives;












(14)


‧maritime spatial planning‧ means a process by which public authorities analyse and allocate the spatial and temporal distribution of human activities in marine areas to achieve ecological, economic and social objectives;














(15)


‧measure‧ means a set of operations;












(15)


‧measure‧ means a set of operations;














(16)


‧public expenditure‧ means any contribution to the financing of operations derived from the Member State's budget or from the budget of regional or local authorities, or the European Union and any similar expenditure. Any contribution to the financing of operations whose origin is the budget of public-law bodies or associations of one or more regional or local authorities or public-law bodies acting in accordance with Directive 2004/18/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts, public supply contracts and public service contracts shall be regarded as a public contribution;












(16)


‧public expenditure‧ means any contribution to the financing of operations derived from the Member State's budget or from the budget of regional or local authorities, or the European Union and any similar expenditure. Any contribution to the financing of operations whose origin is the budget of public-law bodies or associations of one or more regional or local authorities or public-law bodies acting in accordance with Directive 2004/18/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts, public supply contracts and public service contracts shall be regarded as a public contribution;














(17)


‧sea basin strategy‧ means a structured framework of cooperation in respect to












(17)


‧sea basin strategy‧ means a structured framework of cooperation in respect to








a given geographical area, developed by European Institutions, Member States, their regions and where appropriate third countries sharing a sea basin; the strategy takes into account the geographic, climatic, economic and political specificities of the sea basin;


a given geographical area, developed by European Institutions, Member States, their regions and where appropriate third countries sharing a sea basin; the strategy takes into account the geographic, climatic, economic and political specificities of the sea basin;










(18)


‧small scale coastal fishing‧ means fishing carried out by fishing vessels of an overall length of less than 12 metres and not using towed gear as listed in Table 3 Annex I of Commission Regulation (EC) No 26/2004 of 30 December 2003 regarding the fishing vessels register of the Union;












(18)


‧small scale coastal fishing‧ means fishing carried out by fishing vessels of an overall length of less than 12 metres and not using towed gear as listed in Table 3 Annex I of Commission Regulation (EC) No 26/2004 of 30 December 2003 regarding the fishing vessels register of the Union;














(19)


‧vessels operating exclusively in inland waters‧ means vessels engaged in commercial fishing in inland waters and not included in the Union fishing fleet register.












(19)


‧vessels operating exclusively in inland waters‧ means vessels engaged in commercial fishing in inland waters and not included in the Union fishing fleet register








 




















 




















 





















Amendment 8

Article 6(4)






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




(4)   Promoting a sustainable and resource efficient fisheries through the focus on the following areas:


(4)   Promoting a sustainable and resource efficient fisheries through the focus on the following areas:










(a)


reduction of the impact of fisheries on the marine environment;












(a)


reduction of the impact of fisheries on the marine environment;














(b)


protection and restoration of marine biodiversity and ecosystems including the services they provide.












(b)


protection and restoration of marine biodiversity and ecosystems including the services they provide;








 








(c)












Reason

Fish-breeding is necessary in some areas where stocks are seriously depleted.

Amendment 9

Article 13






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




The following operations shall not be eligible under the EMFF:


The following operations shall not be eligible under the EMFF:










a)


operations increasing the fishing capacity of the vessel;












a)


operations increasing the fishing capacity of the vessel;














b)


construction of new fishing vessels, decommissioning or importation of fishing vessels;












b)

















c)


temporary cessation of fishing activities;






























d)


experimental fishing;






























e)


transfer of ownership of a business;






























f)


direct restocking, unless explicitly foreseen as a conservation measure by a Union legal act or in the case of experimental restocking.















direct restocking, unless explicitly foreseen as a conservation measure by a Union legal act or in the case of experimental restocking.









Reason

Aid should be provided for the construction of vessels in the outermost regions, as these must upgrade their working tools so that vessels comply more with the requirements of resource management and the health standards for products.
Aided decommissioning will make it possible to reduce fishing capacity where the circumstances are difficult (resource depletion, etc.) and thus avoid a transfer of activity to healthy fisheries. Such aid should be maintained by ensuring that attention is paid to the actual conditions under which fishing is reduced, through a better management of fishing rights.
Funding for the temporary cessation of fishing activities will compensate for stoppages forced on vessels because of pollution or in connection with a biological recovery period decided for certain species (as was done for anchovies). Without funding, the vessels concerned will probably transfer their activity and target other species of fish and affect their stocks.

Amendment 10

Article 15






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   The resources available for commitments from the EMFF for the period 2014 to 2020 under shared management shall be EUR 5 520 000 000 in current prices in accordance with the annual breakdown set out in Annex II.


1.   The resources available for commitments from the EMFF for the period 2014 to 2020 under shared management shall be EUR 5 520 000 000 in current prices in accordance with the annual breakdown set out in Annex II.




2.   EUR 4 535 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to the sustainable development of fisheries, aquaculture and fisheries areas under Chapters I, II and III of Title V.


2.   EUR 4 535 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to the sustainable development of fisheries, aquaculture and fisheries areas under Chapters I, II III  of Title V.




3.   EUR 477 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to control and enforcement measures referred to in Article 78.


3.   EUR 477 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to control and enforcement measures referred to in Article 78.




4.   EUR 358 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to measures on data collection referred to in Article 79.


4.   EUR 358 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to measures on data collection referred to in Article 79.




5.   The resources allocated to compensation of outermost regions under Chapter V of Title V, shall not exceed per year:


5.   The resources allocated to compensation of outermost regions under Chapter V of Title V, shall not exceed per year:










—


EUR 4 300 000 for the Azores and Madeira;












—


EUR 4 300 000 for the Azores and Madeira;














—


EUR 5 800 000 for the Canary Islands;












—


EUR 5 800 000 for the Canary Islands;














—


EUR 4 900 000 for the French Guiana and Réunion.












—


EUR 4 900 000 for the French Guiana and Réunion








 








—











6.   EUR 45 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to the storage aid referred to in Article 72 from 2014 to 2018 included.


6.   EUR 45 000 000 of the resources referred to in paragraph (1) shall be allocated to the storage aid referred to in Article 72 from 2014 to 2018 included.





Reason

This article, doubtless through an oversight, does not cover funding for marketing and processing measures provided for in Title V of this regulation. Under the CFP basic regulation all the outermost regions should be taken into account when allocating compensation aid. Provision must be made for a specific amount for Guadeloupe, Martinique and Mayotte.

Amendment 11

Article 26






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Support under this Chapter shall contribute to the achievement of the Union priorities identified in Article 6(2) and (4).


Support under this Chapter shall contribute to the achievement of the Union priorities identified in Article 6 (2) and (4).





Reason

Article 6(1) of this regulation is about increasing employment and territorial cohesion. It seems essential that this chapter on the sustainable development of fishing areas should incorporate this ambition.

Amendment 12

Article 31






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   In order to promote human capital and social dialogue, the EMFF may support:


1.   In order to promote human capital and social dialogue, the EMFF may support:










(a)


lifelong learning, dissemination of scientific knowledge and innovative practices, and acquisition of new professional skills in particular linked to the sustainable management of marine ecosystems, activities in the maritime sector, innovation and entrepreneurship;












(a)


lifelong learning, dissemination of scientific knowledge and innovative practices, and acquisition of new professional skills in particular linked to the sustainable management of marine ecosystems, activities in the maritime sector, innovation and entrepreneurship;














(b)


networking and exchange of experience and best practice between stakeholders including among organisations promoting equal opportunities between men and women;












(b)


networking and exchange of experience and best practice between stakeholders including among organisations promoting equal opportunities between men and women;














(c)


promoting the social dialogue at national, regional or local level involving fishermen and other relevant stakeholders.












(c)


promoting the social dialogue at national, regional or local level involving fishermen and other relevant stakeholders.








2.   The support referred to in paragraph 1 shall also be granted to spouses of self-employed fishermen or, when and in so far as recognised by national law, the life partners of self-employed fishermen, not being employees or business partners, where they habitually, under the conditions laid down by national law, participate in the activities of the self-employed fishermen or perform ancillary tasks.


2.   The support referred to in paragraph 1 shall also be granted to spouses of self-employed fishermen or, when and in so far as recognised by national law, the life partners of self-employed fishermen, not being employees or business partners, , under the conditions laid down by national law, participate in the activities of the self-employed fishermen or perform ancillary tasks.





Amendment 13

Article 32






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   In order to facilitate diversification and job creation outside fishing, the EMFF may support:


1.   In order to facilitate diversification and job creation, the EMFF may support:










a)


business start-ups outside fishing;






























b)


retrofitting of small scale coastal fishing vessels in order to reassign them for activities outside fishing.
























 











business start-ups outside fishing;








 











retrofitting of small scale coastal fishing vessels in order to reassign them for activities outside fishing;








 




















2.   Support under paragraph 1 (a) shall be granted to fishermen who:


2.   Support under paragraph 1 (a) shall be granted to fishermen who:










a)


submit a business plan for the development of their new activities;












a)


submit a business plan for the development of their new activities;














b)


possess adequate professional skills which may be acquired through operations financed under Article 31(1)(a).












b)


possess adequate professional skills which may be acquired through operations financed under Article 31(1)(a).








3.   Support under paragraph 1(b) shall be granted to small scale coastal fishermen owning a Union fishing vessel registered as active and which have carried out fishing activities at sea at least 60 days during the two years preceding the date of submission of the application. The fishing licence associated with the fishing vessel shall be permanently withdrawn.


3.   Support under paragraph 1() shall be granted to small scale coastal fishermen owning a Union fishing vessel registered as active and which have carried out fishing activities at sea at least 60 days during the two years preceding the date of submission of the application. The fishing licence associated with the fishing vessel shall be permanently withdrawn.




4.   Beneficiaries of the support referred to in paragraph 1 shall not engage in professional fishing in the five years following the reception of the last payment of the support.


4.    beneficiaries of the support referred to in paragraph 1 shall not engage in professional fishing in the five years following the reception of the last payment of the support.




5.   Eligible costs under paragraph 1(b) shall be limited to the costs of modification of a vessel undertaken for the purpose of its reassignment.


5.   Eligible costs under paragraph 1() shall be limited to the costs of modification of a vessel undertaken for the purpose of its reassignment.




6.   The amount of financial assistance granted under paragraph 1 (a) shall not exceed 50 % of the budget foreseen in the business plan for each operation and shall not exceed a maximum amount of 50 000 EUR for each operation.


   




 








—











 








—











 


   




 








—











 








—











 








—











 


   




 


   The amount of financial assistance granted under paragraph 1() shall not exceed 50 % of the budget foreseen in the business plan for each operation and shall not exceed a maximum amount of 50 000 EUR for each operation.





Reason

Funding for retraining must be supplemented by aid for decommissioning by destruction, as provided for in the former Fund (EFF). If the associated fishing rights are actually abolished, this measure will enable overall fishing to be reduced.
It also seems essential to provide specific aid for the installation of young fishermen, so as to ensure a renewal of the generations and encourage the arrival of new seamen who are better trained and aware of the issues at stake as regards more assertive resource management.

Amendment 14

Article 33






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   In order to improve working conditions on board for fishermen the EMFF may support investments on board or in individual equipments providing that these investments go beyond standards required under national or Union law.


1.   In order to improve working conditions on board for fishermen the EMFF may support investments on board or in individual equipments providing that these investments go beyond standards required under  Union law.




2.   The support shall be granted to fishermen or owners of fishing vessels.


2.   The support shall be granted to fishermen or owners of fishing vessels.




3.   When the operation consists in an investment on board, the support shall not be granted more than once during the programming period for the same fishing vessel. When the operation consists of an investment in individual equipment, the support shall not be granted more than once during the programming period for the same beneficiary.


3.   




4.   The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 150 in order to identify the types of operations eligible under paragraph 1.


   The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 150 in order to identify the types of operations eligible under paragraph 1.





Reason

Aid should not be withheld from fishermen who are nationals of countries which already have a high level of health and safety requirements. For the sake of equality between fishermen, it is the European standard which should be considered as the basic reference.
Moreover, if one wants safety conditions for seamen to improve, it is unreasonable to limit the possibility of aid to just once in an EMFF programme lasting 7 years.

Amendment 15

Article 33a






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




 



   
   





Reason

Funding for the temporary cessation of fishing activities will compensate for stoppages forced on vessels because of pollution or in connection with a biological recovery period decided for certain species (as was done for anchovies). Without funding, the vessels concerned will probably transfer their activity and target other species of fish. In the previous fund (EFF) this measure was used effectively on several occasions.

Amendment 16

Article 35






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   In order to ensure efficient implementation of conservation measures under Articles 17 and 21 of the [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy] the EMFF may support:


1.   In order to ensure  efficient  implementation of conservation measures under Articles 17 and 21 of the [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy] the EMFF may support:










a)


the design and development of technical and administrative means necessary for the implementation of conservation measures in the meaning of Articles 17 and 21 of the [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy];












a)


the design and development of technical and administrative means necessary for the  implementation of conservation measures in the meaning of Articles 17 and 21 of the [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy];














b)


stakeholder participation in designing and implementing conservation measures in the meaning of Articles 17 and 21 of the [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy];












b)


stakeholder participation in designing and implementing conservation measures in the meaning of Articles 17 and 21 of the [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy];








2.   The support referred to in paragraph 1 shall only be granted to public authorities.


2.   The support referred to in paragraph 1 shall only be granted to public authorities .





Reason

Multi-year plans and other conservation measures provided for in Articles 17 and 21 of the basic regulation must also be supported in their development phase with clear support from advisory councils as an important element of regionalisation.

Amendment 17

Article 36






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   In order to reduce the impact of fishing on the marine environment, foster the elimination of discards and facilitate the transition to exploitation of living marine biological resources that restores and maintains populations of harvested species above levels which can produce the MSY, the EMFF may support investments in equipment:


1.   In order to reduce the impact of fishing on the marine environment, foster the elimination of discards and facilitate the transition to exploitation of living marine biological resources that restores and maintains populations of harvested species above levels which can produce the MSY, the EMFF may support investments in equipment:










a)


improving size selectivity or species selectivity of fishing gear;












a)


improving size selectivity or species selectivity of fishing gear;














b)


reducing unwanted catches of commercial stocks or other by-catches;












b)


reducing unwanted catches of commercial stocks or other by-catches;














c)


limiting the physical and biological impacts of fishing on the ecosystem or the sea bed.












c)


limiting the physical and biological impacts of fishing on the ecosystem or the sea bed








 




















2   Support shall not be granted more than once during the programming period for the same Union fishing vessel and for the same type of equipment.


   




3.   Support shall only be granted when the gear or other equipment referred under paragraph 1 has demonstrably better size-selection or lower impact on non-target species than the standard gear or other equipment permitted under Union law or relevant national law of Member States adopted in the context of regionalisation as referred to in the [Regulation on the CFP].


   Support shall only be granted when the gear or other equipment referred under paragraph 1 has demonstrably better size-selection or lower impact on non-target species than the standard gear or other equipment permitted under Union law or relevant national law of Member States adopted in the context of regionalisation as referred to in the [Regulation on the CFP].




4.   Support shall be granted to:


   Support shall be granted to:










a)


owners of Union fishing vessels whose vessels are registered as active vessels and which have carried a fishing activity of at least 60 days at sea during the two years preceding the date of submission of the application;












a)


owners of Union fishing vessels whose vessels are registered as active vessels and which have carried  a fishing activity of at least 60 days at sea during the two years preceding the date of submission of the application;














b)


fishermen who own the gear to be replaced and who have worked on board of a Union fishing vessel for at least 60 days during the two years preceding the date of submission of the application;












b)


fishermen who own the gear to be replaced and who have worked on board of a Union fishing vessel for at least 60 days during the two years preceding the date of submission of the application;














c)


organisations of fishermen recognised by the Member State.












c)


organisations of fishermen recognised by the Member State.









Reason

To develop the fishing techniques needed to achieve MSY as soon as possible, encouragement must be provided for the modernisation of gear and vessels as well as the implementation of the technical measures provided for by the CFP basic regulation. Moreover, if one really wants fishing techniques to become more sustainable, it is unreasonable to limit the possibility of aid to just one EMFF programme lasting 7 years.

Amendment 18

Article 38






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




2.   Operations under this Article shall be implemented by public law bodies and shall involve fishermen or organisations of fishermen, recognised by the Member State, or non-governmental organisation in partnership with organisations of fishermen or FLAGs as defined under Article 62.


2.   Operations under this Article shall be implemented by public law bodies and shall involve fishermen or organisations of fishermen, recognised by the Member State, or non-governmental organisation in partnership with organisations of fishermen or FLAGs as defined under Article 62.





Reason

Articles 52 et seq. of the CFP basic regulation provide for a greater involvement of regional advisory councils in management measures and even gives them a greater possibility of making proposals. These councils must therefore be allowed to have EMFF support to accompany them in their actions.

Amendment 19

Article 39






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




2.   Support shall not contribute to the replacement or modernisation of main or ancillary engines. Support shall only be granted to owners of fishing vessels and not more than once during the programming period for the same fishing vessel.


   





Reason

Funding must be allowed for engine changes because it is very surprising, even paradoxical, to exclude engine renewal from EMFF aid. Engines are in fact the main article of equipment on which efforts could be focused to reduce pollutant emissions or fuel consumption.

Amendment 20

Article 40






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




3.   Support under this Article shall not be granted more than once during the programming period for the same fishing vessel or the same beneficiary.


   





Reason

To encourage innovation and a real improvement in product quality, encouragement must be provided for modifications in vessels to make them more respectful of the resource and the marine environment. For this reason, if one wants fishing techniques to become more sustainable, it is unreasonable to limit the possibility of aid to just once in an EMFF programme lasting 7 years.

Amendment 21

Article 41






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




4.   Support shall not cover the construction of new ports, new landing sites or new auction halls.


   





Reason

It must be possible to provide funding for the fitting-out of sites that are not yet equipped to take account of the obvious and inevitable changes in the workplaces of vessels.

Amendment 22

Article 42






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Article 42
Inland fishing


Article 42
Inland fishing




1.   In order to reduce the impact of inland fishing on the environment, increase energy efficiency, increase the quality of fish landed, or to improve safety or working conditions, the EMFF may support the following investments:


1.   In order to reduce the impact of inland fishing on the environment, increase energy efficiency, increase the quality of fish landed, or to improve safety or working conditions, the EMFF may support the following investments:










(a)


on board or in individual equipment as referred to in Article 33 and under the conditions set out in that Article;












(a)


on board or in individual equipment as referred to in Article 33 and under the conditions set out in that Article;














(b)


in equipment as referred to in Article 36 and under the conditions set out in that Article;












(b)


in equipment as referred to in Article 36 and under the conditions set out in that Article;














(c)


on board and energy efficiency audits and schemes as foreseen in Article 39 and under the same conditions set out in that Article;












(c)


on board and energy efficiency audits and schemes as foreseen in Article 39 and under the same conditions set out in that Article;














(d)


on existing ports and landing sites as referred to in Article 41 and under the conditions set out in that Article.












(d)


on existing ports and landing sites as referred to in Article 41 and under the conditions set out in that Article.








2   For the purposes of paragraph 1:


2   For the purposes of paragraph 1:










(a)


References made in Articles 33, 36 and 39 to fishing vessels shall be understood as references to vessels operating exclusively in inland water;












(a)


References made in Articles 33, 36 and 39 to fishing vessels shall be understood as references to vessels operating exclusively in inland water;














(b)


References made in Article 36 to the marine environment shall be understood as references to the environment in which the inland fishing vessel operates.












(b)


References made in Article 36 to the marine environment shall be understood as references to the environment in which the inland fishing vessel operates.








3.   In order to sustain diversification by inland fishermen, the EMFF may support the reassignment of vessels operating in inland fishing to other activities outside fishing under the conditions of Article 32 of this Regulation.


3.   In order to sustain diversification by inland fishermen, the EMFF may support the reassignment of vessels operating in inland fishing to other activities outside fishing under the conditions of Article 32 of this Regulation.




4.   For the purposes of paragraph 3, references made in Article 32 to fishing vessels shall be understood as references to vessels operating exclusively in inland water.


4.   For the purposes of paragraph 3, references made in Article 32 to fishing vessels shall be understood as references to vessels operating exclusively in inland water.




5.   In order to protect and develop aquatic fauna and flora, the EMFF may support the participation of inland fishermen in managing, restoring and monitoring NATURA 2000 sites where these areas directly concern fishing activities as well as the rehabilitation of inland waters, including spawning grounds and migration routes for migratory species, without prejudice of Article 38(1)(d).


5.   In order to protect and develop aquatic fauna and flora, the EMFF may support the participation of inland fishermen in managing, restoring and monitoring NATURA 2000 sites where these areas directly concern fishing activities as well as the rehabilitation of inland waters, including spawning grounds and migration routes for migratory species, without prejudice of Article 38(1)(d).




6.   Member States shall ensure that vessels receiving support under this Article continue to operate exclusively in inland waters.


   




 


   




 


   Member States shall ensure that vessels receiving support under this Article continue to operate exclusively in inland waters.





Reason

It would be helpful to overturn private fishing rights – old rights in rem which make it difficult for the public authorities to manage waters and which reduce fishermen's incomes. The role of river and lake eco-corridors should also be strengthened, for example by removing barriers in rivers, so as to ensure that migratory fish can complete their life-cycle.

Amendment 23

Article 45






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   In order to stimulate innovation in aquaculture, the EMFF may support operations:


1.   In order to stimulate innovation in aquaculture, the EMFF may support operations:










(a)


introducing new technical or organisational knowledge in aquaculture farms which reduces their impact on the environment or fosters a more sustainable use of resources in aquaculture;












(a)


introducing new technical or organisational knowledge in aquaculture farms which reduces their impact on the environment or fosters a more sustainable use of resources in aquaculture;














(b)


developing or introducing in the market new or substantially improved products compared to the state of art, new or improved processes, new or improved management and organisation systems.












(b)


developing or introducing in the market new or substantially improved products compared to the state of art, new or improved processes, new or improved management and organisation systems.








2.   Operations under this Article must be carried out in collaboration with a scientific or technical body as recognised by the national law of each Member State which shall validate the results of such operations.


2.   Operations under this Article must be carried out in collaboration with a scientific or technical body as recognised by the national law of each Member State which shall validate the results of such operations.




3.   The results of operations receiving support shall be subject to adequate publicity by the Member State according to Article 143


3.   The results of operations receiving support shall be subject to adequate publicity by the Member State according to Article 143.




 


   





Reason

There are farms where it will not be possible to use new knowledge or technical resources due to their physical set-up or to legal impediments. It is therefore necessary to leave open the possibility of creating a new facility where these more advanced, innovative resources could be implemented.
Official aquaculture centres provide a reference for the aquaculture sector which should not be left out when it comes to accessing this support.

Amendment 24

Article 46






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Article 46
Investments in off-shore and non-food aquaculture


Article 46
Investments in off-shore  non-food aquaculture




1.   In order to foster forms of aquaculture with high growth potential, the EMFF may support investment in the development of off-shore or non food aquaculture.


1.   In order to foster forms of aquaculture with high growth potential, the EMFF may support investment in the development of off-shore or non food aquaculture.




2.   The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 150 in order to identify the type of operations and the eligible costs.


2.   The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 150 in order to identify the type of operations and the eligible costs.





Reason

Changing "and" to "or" in the title of the Article opens up the scope to types of aquaculture with a high potential for growth that are not carried out off-shore.

Amendment 25

Article 48






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




4.   Aquaculture farms shall not receive support for the advisory services more than once for each category of services covered under paragraph 2 (a) to (e) during the programming period.


   





Reason

If one wants to make aquaculture more sustainable, it is unreasonable to limit the possibilities of receiving advice to just once in an EMFF programme lasting seven years.

Amendment 26

Article 62






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Fisheries local action groups


Fisheries local action groups




1.   For the purposes of the EMFF the local action groups referred to in Article 28(1)(b) of [Regulation (EU) No […] laying down Common Provisions] shall be designated as Fisheries Local Action Groups (hereinafter "FLAGs")


1.   For the purposes of the EMFF the local action groups referred to in Article 28(1)(b) of [Regulation (EU) No […] laying down Common Provisions] shall be designated as Fisheries Local Action Groups (hereinafter "FLAGs")




2.   The FLAGs shall propose an integrated local development strategy based at least on the elements set out in Article 61 and be responsible for its implementation.


2.   The FLAGs shall propose an integrated local development strategy based at least on the elements set out in Article 61 and be responsible for its implementation.




3.   The FLAGs shall:


3.   The FLAGs shall:










(a)


broadly reflect the main focus of their strategy and the socio-economic composition of the area through a balanced representation of the main stakeholders, including private sector, public sector and civil society;












(a)


broadly reflect the main focus of their strategy and the socio-economic composition of the area through a balanced representation of the main stakeholders, including private sector, public sector and civil society;














(b)


ensure a significant representation of fisheries and aquaculture sectors.












(b)


ensure a significant representation of fisheries and aquaculture sectors.








4.   If the local development strategy is supported by other Funds in addition to the EMFF a specific selection body for EMFF supported projects shall be established according to the criteria set out in paragraph (3).


4.   If the local development strategy is supported by other Funds in addition to the EMFF a specific selection body for EMFF supported projects shall be established according to the criteria set out in paragraph (3).




5.   The minimum tasks of FLAGs are set out in Article 30(3) of the [Regulation (EU) No […] laying down Common Provisions]:


5.   The minimum tasks of FLAGs are set out in Article 30(3) of the [Regulation (EU) No […] laying down Common Provisions]:




6.   FLAGs may also carry out additional tasks delegated to them by the managing authority and/or the paying agency.


6.   FLAGs may also carry out additional tasks delegated to them by the managing authority and/or the paying agency.




7.   The respective roles of the FLAG, the managing authority /the paying agency for all implementation tasks relating to the strategy shall be clearly described in the operational programme.


7.   The respective roles of the FLAG, the managing authority /the paying agency for all implementation tasks relating to the strategy shall be clearly described in the operational programme.




 


   





Reason

FLAGs could in some cases be an extension of other rural development groups that can broaden their geographical scope. This would also allow more integrated projects to be implemented, with lower management, control and monitoring costs.

Amendment 27

Article 69






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   The EMFF may support the preparation and implementation of production and marketing plans referred to in Article 32 of [Regulation (EU) No on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products].


1.   The EMFF  support the preparation and implementation of production and marketing plans referred to in Article 32 of [Regulation (EU) No on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products].





Reason

Each producers' organisation must prepare and submit to the competent authorities of the Member State an operational programme for the fishing season. The question here is to express more explicitly support for these tools that make for a better management of resources and thus enable the fishing industry to adapt to meet consumer needs.

Amendment 28

Article 70






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   The EMFF may support compensation to recognised producer organisations and associations of producers organisations which store fishery products listed in Annex II of Regulation No. [on the common organisation of the market in fishery and aquaculture products], provided that the products are stored in conformity with Articles 35 and 36 of Regulation No …[on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products]:


1.   The EMFF may support compensation to recognised producer organisations and associations of producers organisations which store fishery products listed in Annex II of Regulation No. [on the common organisation of the market in fishery and aquaculture products], provided that the products are stored in conformity with Articles 35 and 36 of Regulation No …[on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products]:










a)


the amount of the storage aid shall not exceed the amount of the technical and financial costs of the actions required for the stabilisation and storage of the products in question;












a)


the amount of the storage aid shall not exceed the amount of the technical and financial costs of the actions required for the stabilisation and storage of the products in question;














b)


the quantities eligible for storage aid shall not exceed 15 % of the annual quantities of the products concerned put up for sale by the producer organisation;












b)


the quantities eligible for storage aid shall not exceed 15 % of the annual quantities of the products concerned put up for sale by the producer organisation;














c)


the financial assistance per year shall not exceed the following percentages of the average annual value of the marketed production at first sale of the members of producer organisation in the period 2009-2011. In the case that members of producer organisation did not have any marketed production in 2009-2011, the average annual value of marketed production in the first three years of production of such member shall be taken into account:












c)


the financial assistance per year shall not exceed the following percentages of the average annual value of the marketed production at first sale of the members of producer organisation in the period 2009-2011. In the case that members of producer organisation did not have any marketed production in 2009-2011, the average annual value of marketed production in the first three years of production of such member shall be taken into account














—


1 % in 2014.












—

















—


0.8 % in 2015.












—

















—


0.6 % in 2016.












—

















—


0.4 % in 2017.












—

















—


0.2 % in 2018.












—











2.   By 2019 support referred to in paragraph 1 shall be phased out.


   





Reason

The phasing-out of storage aid seems irrelevant when, under Article 15 of the basic CFP regulation, vessels will have to gradually land all their catches, including discards. It seems a good idea to provide for storage aid so as to enable the organisations to manage the quantities landed before placing a value on them.

Amendment 29

Article 71






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Article 71
Marketing measures


Article 71
Marketing measures




1.   The EMFF may support marketing measures for fishery and aquaculture products which aim at:


1.   The EMFF may support marketing measures for fishery and aquaculture products which aim at:










(a)


improving the conditions for the placing on the market of:












(a)


improving the conditions for the placing on the market of:














(i)


surplus or underexploited species;












(i)


surplus or underexploited species;














(ii)


unwanted catches landed in conformity with Article 15 of [Regulation on the Common Fisheries Policy] and Article 8 (b) second indent of the [Regulation (EU) No on the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products];






























(iii)


products obtained using methods with low impact on the environment or organic aquaculture products as defined in Council Regulation(EC) No 834/2007 on organic production.















products obtained using methods with low impact on the environment or organic aquaculture products as defined in Council Regulation(EC) No 834/2007 on organic production.














(b)


promoting the quality by facilitating:












(b)


promoting the quality by facilitating:














(i)


the application for registration of a given product under the terms of Council Regulation (EC) No 510/2006 of 20 March 2006 on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs[1];












(i)


the application for registration of a given product under the terms of Council Regulation (EC) No 510/2006 of 20 March 2006 on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs[1];














(ii)


certification and promotion including of sustainable fishery and aquaculture products and of environmentally friendly processing methods;












(ii)


certification and promotion including of sustainable fishery and aquaculture products and of environmentally friendly processing methods;














(iii)


direct marketing of fishery products by small scale coastal fishermen.












(iii)


direct marketing of fishery products by small scale coastal fishermen.














(c)


contributing to the transparency of production and the markets and conducting market surveys;












(c)


contributing to the transparency of production and the markets and conducting market surveys;














(d)


drawing up standard contracts which are compatible with Union law;












(d)


drawing up standard contracts which are compatible with Union law;














(e)


creating producers' organisations, associations of producer organisations or inter-branch organisations recognised under Chapter II, Section III of Regulation [on the Common Organisation of the markets in fisheries and aquaculture products];












(e)


creating producers' organisations, associations of producer organisations or inter-branch organisations recognised under Chapter II, Section III of Regulation [on the Common Organisation of the markets in fisheries and aquaculture products];














(f)


conducting regional, national or transnational promotional campaigns for fishery and aquaculture products.












(f)


conducting regional, national or transnational promotional campaigns for fishery and aquaculture products.








2.   Operations under paragraph (1)(b) may include the integration of production, processing and marketing activities of the supply chain.


2.   Operations under paragraph (1)(b) may include the integration of production, processing and marketing activities of the supply chain.





Reason

As landing all catches is not a real solution to the problem of discards, it should not be mentioned here. The only alternative to landing all catches is to encourage the development and implementation of more selective fishing gear. This amendment brings the text into line with the opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the CFP Regulation, which proposed the amendment of Article 15 on the landing of all catches.

Amendment 30

Title Chapter V






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment













Amendment 31

Article 73






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   The EMFF may support the compensation regime introduced by Council Regulation (EC) No 791/2007 for the additional costs incurred by the operators in the fishing, farming and marketing of certain fishery and aquaculture products from the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, French Guiana, and Réunion.


1.   The EMFF  compensation regime  for the additional costs incurred by the operators in the fishing, farming and marketing of certain fishery and aquaculture products from the .





Reason

Regulation (EC) No. 791/2007 will be repealed at the end of 2013, when the current EMFF regulation comes into force. Account should be taken of the specific features of all of the outermost regions without distinction, as in the CFP basic regulation, as they are in similar situations.

Amendment 32

Article 75a






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




 





































Reason

The outermost regions are highly dependent on fishing, which is often carried out by very small vessels. It is important to provide support for equipment and construction so that vessels comply more with the requirements of resource management and the health standards for products.
To reduce fishing near coasts, it must be possible to provide funding for such equipment installed offshore if its construction and development is conducted in cooperation with a scientific body.

Amendment 33

Article 85






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Article 85
Scientific Advice and knowledge


Article 85
Scientific Advice and knowledge




1.   The EMFF may support the provision of scientific deliverables, particularly applied-research projects directly linked to the provision of scientific opinions and advice, for the purpose of sound and efficient fisheries management decisions under the CFP.


1.   The EMFF may support the provision of scientific deliverables, particularly applied-research projects directly linked to the provision of scientific opinions and advice, for the purpose of sound and efficient fisheries management decisions under the CFP.




2.   In particular, the following types of operations shall be eligible:


2.   In particular, the following types of operations shall be eligible:










(a)


studies and pilot projects needed for the implementation and development of the CFP, including on alternative types of sustainable fishing management techniques;












(a)


studies and pilot projects needed for the implementation and development of the CFP, including on alternative types of sustainable fishing management techniques;














(b)


the preparation and provision of scientific opinions and advice by scientific bodies, including international advisory bodies in charge of stock assessments, by independent experts and by research institutions;












(b)


the preparation and provision of scientific opinions and advice by scientific bodies, including international advisory bodies in charge of stock assessments, by independent experts and by research institutions;














(c)


the participation of experts in the meetings on fisheries scientific and technical issues and expert working groups as well as in international advisory bodies and in meetings where contribution of fisheries experts will be required;












(c)


the participation of experts in the meetings on fisheries scientific and technical issues and expert working groups as well as in international advisory bodies and in meetings where contribution of fisheries experts will be required;














(d)


expenditure incurred by the Commission for services related to collection, management and use of data, to the organisation and management of fisheries expert meetings and the management of annual work programmes related to fisheries scientific and technical expertise, to the processing of data calls and datasets, to the preparatory work aiming at delivering scientific opinions and advice;












(d)


expenditure incurred by the Commission for services related to collection, management and use of data, to the organisation and management of fisheries expert meetings and the management of annual work programmes related to fisheries scientific and technical expertise, to the processing of data calls and datasets, to the preparatory work aiming at delivering scientific opinions and advice;














(e)


cooperation activities between the Member States in the field of data collection, including the setting-up and running of regionalized databases for storage, management and use of data which will benefit regional cooperation and improve data collection and management activities as well as the scientific expertise in support of fisheries management.












(e)


cooperation activities between the Member States in the field of data collection, including the setting-up and running of regionalized databases for storage, management and use of data which will benefit regional cooperation and improve data collection and management activities as well as the scientific expertise in support of fisheries management.









Reason

In the context of the CFP, extensive consideration is given to the difficulties faced by maritime fishing due to overfishing, fuel prices and administrative hurdles. Therefore, the studies and pilot projects necessary to apply and implement the CFP should include aquaculture as well as fishing as a source of food production with a high potential for development in the EU.

Amendment 34

Article 88






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




1.   The EMFF may support operating costs of the Advisory Councils as set up by Article 52 of [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy].


1.   The EMFF  support costs  of the Advisory Councils as set up by Article 52 of [Regulation on Common Fisheries Policy] .





Reason

The general rules and guidelines of the Common Fisheries Policy are decided by co-decision between the European Parliament and the Council (environmental objectives, industry support mechanisms, common market organisation, etc.). However, the specific regulations must be defined on a fishing area scale (specific technical measures and multi-year management plans). This is why the basic regulation provides for a greater involvement of advisory councils in decision-making.
Such an institutional organisation has many advantages over the current situation: it would be structured in accordance with ecosystems, it would facilitate adaptive management, assign priorities, make for a clearer division of authority and encourage the participation of stakeholders.
A stronger RAC would remain a light structure made up of four to five permanent posts.

Amendment 35

Article 100






Text proposed by the Commission


CoR amendment




Decommitment


Decommitment




The Commission shall decommit any portion of a budget commitment for an operational programme that has not been used for the purpose of pre-financing or making interim payments or for which no declaration of expenditure fulfilling the requirements laid down in Article 98(3) has been presented to it in relation to expenditure incurred by 31 December of the second year following that of the budget commitment.


   The Commission shall decommit any portion of a budget commitment for an operational programme that has not been used for the purpose of pre-financing or making interim payments or for which no declaration of expenditure fulfilling the requirements laid down in Article 98(3) has been presented to it in relation to expenditure incurred by 31 December of the  year following that of the budget commitment.




 


   





Reason

The EMFF is likely to be put in practice slowly in view, firstly, of the slow rate of implementation of the present EFF, together with the possibility of continuing to make commitments and payments with this fund until the end of 2015. Secondly, and following the above-mentioned overlap, the economic and financial situation of public administrations, together with the limits on bank credit for private promoters, will not be such as to generate a rate of economic development matching the "N + 2" rule. The rule should therefore be made more flexible, moving to "N + 3" at least for the first three years (2014-2016) until the programme has reached proper cruising speed.

Brussels, 9 October 2012.


The President of the Committee of the Regions

Ramón Luis VALCÁRCEL SISO