ICCAT 2012: A Push to Protect Bluefin Tuna, Marlin and Sharks
November 12, 2012
The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT) is holding its annual meeting in Agadir, Morocco, from the 12th to the 19th of November. ICCAT is an inter-governmental fishery organization responsible for the conservation of tunas and tuna-like species found in the Atlantic Ocean and in surrounding seas.
At this years meeting, the multi-annual recovery plan for Bluefin tuna is up for review. In addition, it is expected that the EU will continue to propose measures for the protection of sharks including porbeagle and shortfin mako. Supporting comprehensive measures are also expected to be on the table for the conservation of Blue and White Marlin.
The current meeting marks the 18th Special Meeting of the Commission. ICCAT was first established in 1969, under the International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas, signed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Since it’s creation, ICCAT has met annually to consider the best science-based recommendations for management of tunas and tuna-like species in the Atlantic and adjacent seas.
Leading up to this year’s meeting, the EU put forward a proposal for an in-port inspection scheme and for increased traceability of ICCAT species to be adopted. At the completion of the meeting, there is optimism that the management and control system of ICCAT will be strengthened. Better compliance with agreed rules will hopefully help combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU).
With the EU pushing for protection of Bluefin Tuna, Marlin and Sharks against illegal fishing, Mission Blue will continue to follow the meeting in Morocco. Check back for significant ICCAT updates.
For more information on ICCAT click HERE.
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