EU mulls full ban on driftnets

The European Commission announced here Wednesday that it wants to prohibit the use of any kind of driftnets for fishing in all EU waters as of January 1, 2015. Driftnets are fishing nets that can drift and operate close to or at the sea surface to target fish species that swim in the upper part of the water level. European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, said in a press statement that "fishing with driftnets destroys marine habitats, endangers marine wildlife and threatens sustainable fisheries." "I'm convinced that the only way to eradicate this once and for all is to have clear rules which leave no room for interpretation.. The ban sends out a clear message that we no longer tolerate any irresponsible practices," she added. Since 2002 all driftnets, no matter their size, have been prohibited in EU waters when intended for the capture of highly migratory species such as tuna and swordfish. However, illegal driftnet activities carried out by EU fishing vessels continue to be reported and have been cause of criticism regarding the Union's compliance with its international obligations