Senators Propose 15 Measures to Reopen Gulf of Gascogne to Year-Round Fishing by 2027
The comprehensive report emphasizes balancing dolphin conservation with economic support for the fishing industry, building on the success of seasonal bans in reducing accidental dolphin captures.
- The report, released on April 9, 2025, outlines 15 recommendations to transition from seasonal bans to sustainable year-round fishing in the Gulf of Gascogne starting in 2027.
- Key measures include expanding the use of cameras on fishing vessels and optimizing pingers to minimize dolphin captures while maintaining practical usability for fishermen.
- A mediator is proposed to ease tensions between fishermen, scientists, and environmental organizations, ensuring collaborative policy implementation.
- The senators advocate negotiating with the European Commission to maintain an 80% compensation rate for fishermen's revenue during seasonal closures and ensuring timely financial support.
- Additional recommendations include a European regional approach to cetacean protection, increased funding for scientific monitoring, and a 'mirror law' regulating imports to align with conservation efforts.
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