Press Release: Commission moves to give greater protection to cod stocks

A new set of measures designed to prevent catches of immature cod in the North Sea and off the west of Scotland was adopted by the European Commission on 19 October 2001. These measures set out the technical requirements for fishing nets used to catch cod to ensure that they allow as many young fish as possible to escape before the nets are hauled back on board. They also regulate the composition of catches retained on board in order to ensure that fishing gear is used for the appropriate fisheries. The measures are viewed as essential for the protection of cod stocks while proposals for longer term recovery plans are prepared. The new rules will be applicable from 1 January 2002.