91997E3425

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3425/97 by Marjo Matikainen-Kallström (PPE) to the Commission (31 October 1997)

Subject: Norwegian salmon farms in the Tana Fjord

The Norwegian State has granted permits, contrary to the recommendations of the regional environmental authorities and the Finnish-Norwegian border waters commission, for the rearing of salmon in the Tana Fjord in bag-shaped netting enclosures. This authorization for the rearing of salmon in the Tana Fjord is all the more surprising since the Norwegian State, in conjunction with the Norwegian environmental protection organization, demanded the closure of the fish farming establishment at Inari (Finland) on the grounds that it posed a threat to the naturally occurring strain of salmon in the Tenojoki (Tana) river. The Finnish State did in fact close the Inari fish farm.

In the light of the above the Norwegian State has shown great irresponsibility in permitting the farming of fish in netting enclosures in the Tana Fjord. Such installations increase the risk of spreading fish diseases and impairing the genome quality of the naturally occurring Tenojoki salmon. The Norwegians' activities pose a threat not only to the natural Tenojoki salmon, but also to livelihoods in the fishing and tourist industries in the Tenojoki valley. The destruction of the natural salmon stock would have incalculable consequences for the whole valley.

What measures can the Commission take to clarify the fishery situation in the Tenojoki and to protect the natural Tenojoki salmon and the whole of the Tenojoki valley from destruction?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission (11 December 1997)

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question P-2907/97 by Mrs Hautala ((OJ C 134, 30.4.1998, p. 35. )).