The event aims to highlight the current situation of small scale fishermen, their specific needs from a reformed Common Fisheries Proposal, the provisions being made to them and "low impact" fishing practices under the Common Fisheries Reform Proposals.

The discussions will highlight key policy proposals from relevant stakeholders which can be debated in the presence of Commission representatives.

Speakers will include representatives of small scale fishermen (from Ireland, Spain and the UK), the rapporteur of the Parliament's Initiative report on "small scale and artisanal fisheries", Mr. João Ferreira MEP and the relevant European Commission officials dealing with the reform.