The North Western Waters and the Pelagic Advisory Councils (ACs) celebrated their 20 years Anniversary this year. On this occasion, the two ACs organised a high level meeting at the Dublin castle (Dublin – Ireland). After a warm welcome by both Chairs, Emiel Brouckaert and Sean O’Donughe, a key note address was given by Charlina Vitcheva (DG MARE Director-General), Commissioner Sinkevicius and Irish Minister Mc Conaloghue addresses videos to the Members as they could not attend the event. Afterwards, two panels were organised : (1) on the beginnings and the greatest achievements of the ACs and; (2) on the future of EU fisheries and regionalisation in the Northeast Atlantic. Our colleague, Alexandra Philippe (EBCD), as Vice-Chair of the North Western Waters AC (NWWAC) took part of the first panel presenting the greatest achievements of the NWWAC. She pointed out the impact of NWWAC on EU Fisheries Policies throughout its numerous focus groups, working groups, workshops and advice. She highlighted that even if it is difficult to evaluate the concrete impact of the advice, the role of NWWAC is uncontestably recognised by the Commission and by the Member States. She added that the NWWAC has succeeded in bringing together stakeholders from different countries and different background to find a common ground to make EU Fisheries Policies more efficient and more inclusive. Despina Symons, EBCD Director, also participated at this event as she was one of the first members of the ACs. A formal diner took place in the evening at the Dublin Castle. The event concluded the next day with a visit of the “Ocean Protector” – one of the European Fisheries Control Agency vessels. More information is available here.
