The European Parliament adopted, by 554 votes in favour to 12 against with 6 abstentions, a resolution drafted by Albert Jan MAAT (EPP-ED, NL),and made some amendments to the Commission’s proposal. (Please see the summary of 28/08/2006.) In addition, Parliament inserted a recital stating that there is a need to reduce the potential negative consequences of the use of beam trawls on ecosystems and the marine environment. Accordingly, immediately after the entry into force of this Regulation, the Commission should carry out a study of the impact of beam trawl fishing on ecosystems and the marine environment in the areas where this fishing method is used and of the alternative fishing methods for beam trawl fishing that are sustainable in economic, ecological and social terms. On the basis of that study, an action plan should be drawn up for the gradual phasing-out of fishing methods and gear which have a negative impact on ecosystems and the marine environment in favour of lower-impact fishing methods and gear.