PURPOSE: to extend the validity of the 12 nautical mile access regime with a time limit until the entry into force of the new Regulation on the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
LEGISLATIVE ACT: Regulation (EU) No 1152/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 2371/2002 on the conservation and sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources under the common fisheries policy.
CONTENT: the Council adopted an amendment to Regulation 2371/2002 on the conservation and sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) following an agreement at first reading with the European Parliament.
Regulation 2371/2002 establishes a derogation for the 12 nautical mile zone of Member States’ territorial waters from the general equal access rule for EU fishing vessels to EU waters and resources, authorising Member States to restrict access to certain vessels in that zone.
The access restrictions established on the basis of that derogation have reduced fishing pressure in the most biologically sensitive areas and have contributed to economic stability for small-scale coastal activities.
The derogation entered into force on 1 January 2003 and is to expire on 31 December 2012. Its validity should be extended pending the adoption of a new Regulation, based on the Commission proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Common Fisheries Policy.
ENTRY INTO FORCE: 21/12/2012.
APPLICATION: from 01/01/2013.