Explanatory Memorandum to COM(2017)486 - Conclusion of a Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and the financial contribution provided for by the fisheries agreement with Mauritius - Main contents
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| dossier | COM(2017)486 - Conclusion of a Protocol setting out the fishing opportunities and the financial contribution provided for by the fisheries ... |
|---|---|
| source | COM(2017)486  |
| date | 15-09-2017 |
1. CONTEXT OF THE PROPOSAL
• Reasons for and objectives of the proposal
On the basis of the relevant negotiating directives 1 , the Commission conducted negotiations with the Government of Mauritius with a view to concluding a new Protocol to the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Mauritius 2 . Following these negotiations, a new Protocol was initialled on 26 April 2017. The Protocol covers a period of four years from the date of its provisional application, i.e. from the date on which it is signed, as it states in Article 15.
The main aim of the new Protocol is to provide fishing opportunities for Union vessels in Mauritius waters, on the basis of the best available scientific advice and respecting the recommendations of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), where applicable within the limits of the available surplus. The Commission based its position in part on the results of an evaluation of the previous Protocol (2014-2017) and a forward-looking assessment of whether a new Protocol should be concluded. Both were carried out by external experts. The Protocol will also enable the European Union and the Republic of Mauritius to work more closely on promoting a sustainable fisheries policy, sound exploitation of fisheries resources in Mauritius waters, and support Mauritius's efforts to develop its sustainable ocean economy, in the interests of both parties.
The Protocol provides for fishing opportunities in the following categories:
– 40 tuna seiners;
– 45 surface long-liners.
• Consistency with existing policy provisions in the policy area
The new Protocol will provide a framework for Union vessels fishing in Mauritius waters and for stronger cooperation relationship between the Union and Mauritius, taking into account the priorities of the reformed Common Fisheries Policy and its external dimension. The aim is to establish a strategic partnership with this country.
The Commission therefore proposes that the Council authorise the signing and provisional application of the new Protocol.
• Consistency with other Union policies
The proposal is consistent with the European Union’s external action towards African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries.
2. RESULTS OF EX-POST EVALUATIONS, STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS AND IMPACT ASSESSMENTS
The interested parties were consulted during the ex-post and ex-ante evaluations on a possible new Protocol between the European Union and the Republic of Mauritius. Experts from the Member States and industry were also consulted in technical meetings. These consultations led to the conclusion that it would be beneficial for the European Union and the Republic of Mauritius to conclude a new Protocol to the Fisheries Partnership Agreement.
3. BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS
The annual financial contribution is EUR 575 000, based on:
(a) a reference tonnage of 4 000 tonnes, for which an annual amount linked to access has been set at EUR 220 000;
(b) support for development of the sectoral fisheries policy of the Republic of Mauritius, amounting to EUR 220 000 annually; and
(c) support for development in the field of ocean economy, amounting to EUR 135 000 annually.
This support meets the objectives of the national fisheries, maritime policy and ocean economy and in particular Mauritius's needs in relation to: scientific research; artisanal fisheries; fisheries monitoring, control and surveillance; and the fight against illegal fishing.