The Fisheries Committee in the European Parliament today adopted an important part of the Common Fisheries reform: the common organisation of the market.  ALDE pushed for more clarity for consumers of fish products.  In particular fish products may only be offered for retail to the final consumer if the labelling includes information on the commercial designation of the species, the production method, and the specific fish stock as well as the area where the fish was caught.  Moreover, for products which are to be sold fresh, the date of landing the product ashore shall be mandatory. If a product was frozen the words "defrosted product" need to be mentioned on the label.

"I am pleased that our concept was supported by the committee members. This way, we assure that the consumers can make informed purchases and they are at the same time not overburdened with unnecessary data," states Pat the Cope Gallagher (FF, Ireland), ALDE Spokesperson on Fisheries  after the extensive voting session today. " It is heartening that the amendments include support for small scale fishermen, allowing that the date of catch can be labelled voluntarily which in future may be used to promote a direct catch", argued Gallagher.

"People want to buy fish that is fresh but we have to make sure that they are not deceived.  Fish caught a day or more ago and put on ice will be every bit as good as fish caught that day but left to steam in the sun.", said Chris Davies (Liberal Democrats, United Kingdom)