SAFEWATERS

The Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (EASME), acting under the powers delegated by the European Commission has launched a framework contract in cascade for the provision of scientific advice for fisheries beyond EU waters.

The purpose of the framework contract is to provide at short notice services according to the needs of the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries.

The 4-million-euro framework contract agreement includes several projects over 48 months aimed at implementing conservation measures that enable sustainable management of fishing resources outside the EU and reinforce economic growth and food safety in coastal countries where fisheries operate.

Objective

The aim of the framework contract is to provide the European Commission the scientific advice they need in order to ensure the sustainable management of EU fisheries outside EU waters, which are managed by international fishery management organisation. The provision of scientific advice will especially focus on the External Dimension of the Common Fisheries Policy (excluding the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea). The advice and services required by the European Commission will support the implementation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), especially the external policy, by applying the precautionary approach and focusing on safeguarding the entire ecosystem, and ensuring that the EU environmental laws (Marine Strategy Framework Directive) and the Integrated Maritime Policy are complied with.