This delay allows for a more thorough examination of the proposal’s potential impacts and scientific approach. The European Bottom Fishing Alliance (EBFA) has welcomed the postponement, viewing it as an opportunity for a more inclusive and comprehensive dialogue with both national and EU authorities.

‘We appreciate the MSCG’s decision today to delay the vote. The European Commission cannot use a backdoor, such as the implementation of ill-defined objectives of an EU Directive, to adopt measures that have such a huge impact on our fishers. Decisions as such must be checked by the elected institutions of the EU. The timing is therefore especially worrying as the European Parliament is on hold due to the European elections and while the EU is deciding on the revision of the Law from which this decision is deriving’, said an Iván López, chair of EBFA. ‘This extension provides valuable time for stakeholders to further engage in constructive discussions with our administrations to achieve a balanced approach that considers the needs of the fishing community and ensures sustainable food production’.

EBFA remains optimistic about the upcoming discussions and is committed to working towards solutions that support both environmental sustainability and the economic viability of the fishing industry.