Presentation by some of the Managing Authorities showed the various tools and processes being used to improve the efficiency of delivery systems (e.g. in Finland, France, Spain, Sweden). The discussion also highlighted the benefits of learning from the last programming period. The focus on results was highlighted as a key principle of the new programming period. Presentations by FAME (Fisheries and Aquaculture Monitoring and Evaluation) Support Unit and two FLAGs further reinforced this by demonstrating the usefulness of monitoring that goes beyond the compulsory obligations. While recognising the challenges, there was a consensus among the participants on the importance of moving ahead quickly with the development of simple but effective monitoring and evaluation systems.

MAs also recognise the useful contribution of national networks in supporting CLLD implementation, especially in terms of facilitating knowledge sharing, capacity building, and peer learning, as demonstrated by the Swedish example. For the current period, ten new national networks will be set-up, bringing the total number of EMFF-CLLD networks to 19.

Read about the meeting and find all presentations here.

Supported by the Ceder Navia-Porcía FLAG, four cofradias from western Asturias teamed up to apply for the MSC ecolabel, a globally recognized certification scheme promoting seafood sustainability. The fleet, made up of 27 boats, is based in the Navia-Porcía region of western Asturias and employs artisanal fishers from the cofradias of Nuestra Señora de la Atalaya de Puerto de Vega, Nuestra Señora de la Caridad de Ortiguera, Santo Ángel de la Guarda de Viavélez and San Pedro de Tapia de Casariego. With the help of Axis 4, and the participative-approach of the FLAG, the four cofradias achieved good cooperation and results in the pre-assessment, which was led by Bureau Veritas (BV), an independent certification assessment. The pre-assessment concluded that octopus stocks were healthy and the fishery was well managed, with only minimal impact on the marine ecosystem. A team of fisheries science and policy experts from BV evaluated the fishery according to the three principles of the MSC Fisheries Standard: the health of the stock; the impact of fishing on the marine environment; and the management of the fishery.

This example demonstrates the positive impacts that FLAGs and CLLD are having on the profitability and sustainability of European fisheries communities. To learn more about certification and how FLAGs can help increase the value of their local catch, check out our FARNET guide on “Marketing the Local Catch” and particularly the chapter on certification.