Fisheries: consumers will be better informed under new market rules approved by Parliament.

Consumers will be better informed when purchasing fish products in future, thanks to new rules endorsed by the European Parliament in Strasbourg today, according to Jim Higgins MEP.

Mr Higgins, EPP Group Shadow Rapporteur for the Report on Common Organisation of the Markets in Fishery and Aquaculture Products (CMO), has welcomed the adoption of the Report as the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy continues over the coming months.

"The old Common Market Organisation did not contribute to sustainable production. This Report provides a basis for Irish co-ops to become more involved with the management of their local fisheries", Mr Higgins explained.

Mr Higgins also criticised previous rules as being too strict on EU fishermen: "EU production lacks competitiveness in a globalised environment. We have high standards for our own fishermen to encourage quality, responsible practices and yet, we import tuna fish from places like China where there are no EU equivalent inspections at all."

"New measures approved by Parliament in this Report today will lead to a much clearer labelling system for fish products, adhering to strict EU rules. Consumers will be able to make a more informed choice when they can easily determine when the fish was caught, where from, and in which country the vessel that caught the fish is registered. These measures empower the consumer and are positive steps towards protecting the livelihoods of EU fishermen."

The new rules will also enable policy-makers to manage problematic fluctuations in demand for fish products in a more effective manner.

"Better marketing practices proposed in this CMO, minimum process and electronic online auctions are also outlined in the text which has been endorsed by a majority of MEPs", Mr Higgins added.