MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Update on rules for implementation of real-time closures in the North Sea and Skagerrak – E-003034/2024(ASW)

Rules laid down in Commission Regulation (EU) No 724/2010[1] for the implementation of real-time closures of certain fisheries in the North Sea and Skagerrak were agreed upon in consultations between the EU and Norway and documented in an agreed record signed on 3 July 2009.

Any modifications to these rules, including the trigger level and sampling methodology, would require the Commission to engage in consultations with Norway and the United Kingdom (UK) — now an independent coastal State, based on a position from the Council.

The Commission is committed to ensuring that all regulatory measures are based on the best available scientific advice. Should this scientific evidence indicate the need to update those rules to reflect a new biological reality, the Commission is willing to discuss appropriate actions with the Member States concerned as well as other coastal States in the North Sea.

The Commission will continue to uphold the principles of the Common Fisheries Policy[2] in its cooperation with the UK and Norway, including the establishment of measures based on the best available scientific advice.

• [1] Commission Regulation (EU) No 724/2010 of 12 August 2010 laying down detailed rules for the implementation of real-time closures of certain fisheries in the North Sea and Skagerrak, OJ L 213, 13.8.2010, p. 1-5.
• [2] Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the Common Fisheries Policy, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1954/2003 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 2371/2002 and (EC) No 639/2004 and Council Decision 2004/585/EC, OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 22-61.