MEPs question Commission on illegal fishing of sardines and swordfish

Read the question below: 
Subject: Illegal fishing for undersized sardines and swordfish in Italy
Every year, between January and May, along the southern coasts of Italy, several tens of tons of young sardines (Sardina pilchardus) are caught illegally. The undersized fish are sold illegally in the markets, often in broad daylight. The Adorno group, O.D.V., which specializes in the fight against poaching, sent no less than 16 reports to the competent authorities in 2023 alone, concerning both the illegal fishing of young sardines and the equally illegal marketing of undersized swordfish specimens (Xiphias gladius), accompanied by photographic evidence. All the reports remained unanswered and produced no results, while illegal sales continued.
Checks at sea on young sardine fishing are very scarce, not least because they have sometimes provoked violent reactions from illegal fishermen. In fact, the actions of the Italian law enforcement authorities to combat these illegal phenomena focus almost exclusively on the transportation phase, when the fish are already dead and serious environmental damage has already been caused.
Does the Commission intend to take action against the Italian government, calling for systematic controls, both at sea and on land, to ensure compliance with national and European regulations established to protect marine fauna and biodiversity?


Read the Commission's response below:

Share this post