European Eel Regulation – 10th anniversary but no cause for celebration

The European Eel has come sharpely into focus this month with the European Commission’s proposal to close all eel fisheries in the marine waters of the Baltic. Today, there is an exchange of views in the Pech Committee of the European Parliament and the whole issue goes to the Council of Ministers 10th October.

SEG carried out its own review as to why Eel recovery had come to a standstill and this was published in Dekker 2016 and summarised in SEG’ newsletter July 2016.

SEG’s conclusion

A comprehensive approach is required, in which protective measures in marine waters is combined with effective national Eel Management Plans. Only a holistic approach will achieve the “Common and Concerted Action” that is so urgently needed.

 We therefore strongly recommend a re-examination of the mandatory conditions for the development of a successful community-wide Action Plan in particular the establishment of an international institution for the coordination and orchestration of joint national and community actions to manage and protect the European eel.