Website
Funding
Eusko Jaurlaritza – Basque Government through the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund
Development of regional plans in line with the requirements of the Data Collection Framework (DCF).
The entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2017/1004 and its implementation through Decision (EU) 2021/1167, which establishes the EU Multiannual Programme for Data Collection (EUMAP), has reinforced the principle of regionalisation as a central pillar of fisheries data management in Europe. One of the main objectives of this regulatory framework is to establish regional sampling plans to improve knowledge of European fleets, harmonise data collection methods and optimise the resources allocated to the scientific monitoring of fisheries.
These regional sampling plans provide a better understanding of the activities of fleets flying the flag of EU Member States, improve the efficiency and methodological consistency of data collection, and support the integration of information into regional databases used by scientific and management bodies such as the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) and the Regional Coordination Groups (RCGs).
To develop these plans, the RCGs have promoted the creation of specialised subgroups working on specific thematic areas, including methodology, fleet monitoring, protected species and small-scale fisheries. The organisation and operation of these subgroups are governed by Rules of Procedure (RoPs), drawn up and agreed by consensus between the Member States and the European Commission.
This harmonisation process, which began in 2016, has helped establish a stable framework for cooperation that supports consistent implementation of EU data collection regulations and the development of a coordinated regional approach to fisheries management.
The project aims to meet the requirements established under the Data Collection Framework (DCF) by actively contributing to the technical and scientific work of the RCGs and their thematic subgroups.
Its specific objectives are to:
This project enables AZTI researchers to have a direct role in the forums that define methodological standards, sampling priorities and fisheries data management strategies underpinning the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
The Data Collection Framework (DCF) provides the basis for gathering the scientific information needed to assess the status of marine resources and ecosystems, as well as the socio-economic performance of the fisheries, aquaculture and processing sectors. Direct involvement in the RCGs therefore contributes to:
AZTI researchers also play prominent leadership roles within the RCGs:
The participation of AZTI researchers in these groups ensures direct and up-to-date monitoring of decisions and measures arising from the European regulatory framework that may have binding implications. This involvement makes it possible to anticipate potential impacts on the Basque fleet, supporting early adaptation to new EU requirements for fisheries data collection and enabling a swift and coordinated response to future management requirements.
Eusko Jaurlaritza – Basque Government through the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund
Sectors: Fisheries and aquaculture sector
Research lines: Efficient, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture
Research sublines: Sustainable fishery management
