Press Release: Commission launches consultation on reform of the CFP control system

The European Commission started a consultation exercise on its initiative to reform the control system of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Strengthening control and enforcement is one of the main pillars of the CFP reform process begun in 2002. However, as underlined by recent reports from both the Commission and the Court of Auditors, serious shortcomings persist in this area. Primary responsibility for implementation and control of the CFP lies with the EU Member States, within a framework agreed and laid down by the Council of Ministers. The purpose of the consultation is to establish what action is both desirable and appropriate at EU level, and to gauge the probable impact of the initiatives under consideration. A detailed consultation paper has been published on the Internet, and stakeholders and citizens have until 5 May 2008 to provide the Commission with their views.