92000E4123

WRITTEN QUESTION E-4123/00

by Glyn Ford (PSE) to the Commission

(11 January 2001)

Subject: Eels and elvers

Eels and elvers are a declining species in much of Europe.

Has the Commission implemented any measures (or is it intending to implement any measures), to preserve eels and regulate fishing for eels?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(21 February 2001)

The Commission is fully aware of the problems concerning the European eel stock but has not proposed any measures apart from those already implemented by Member States.

Work is proceeding on the preparation of a Community-wide management plan for eel. However the initial time frame for this proposal has changed as the Commission has not yet been provided with the requested information about possible measures by the International Council for the exploration of the sea (ICES). ICES has, however, in the meantime analysed the eel situation in the United States and Canada where similar concerns about the eel population have recently been raised. The report became available by November 2000 and indicates that the advice on possible measures for the other side of the Atlantic might also be applicable to Europe. The Commission will therefore reflect on this advice before finalising the management plan for the European eel.