Press Release: Commission bans trawling in area off Scottish coast to protect deep-water coral reefs

The European Commission adopted on 20 August 2003 emergency measures immediately banning the use of bottom trawled fishing gear in an area, known as the Darwin Mounds, some 180 kilometres off the north-west coast of Scotland. This measure is designed to protect unique cold water corals which are said to be under current and immediate threat from bottom trawling. The request for Commission action came from the United Kingdom under new measures adopted last December to reform the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Emergency measures, applicable for 6 months, can be taken if there is evidence - as was the case here of a serious threat to marine ecosystems. To establish a permanent ban, the Commission will shortly table a proposal for a Council Regulation. Under the CFP, measures must be taken to minimise the effects of fishing activities on marine ecosystems. Reefs must also be protected under the 1992 Habitats Directive.