THE European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, is to open a one-day seminar in Brussels on the state of fish stocks in European waters on September 14.

The seminar aims to have open discussions on the latest scientific research on EU fisheries, and how it should be applied in practice for the 2011 fishing season and in the long term.

The seminar will cover all major European fish stocks (cod, herring, anchovy, whiting, etc). Scientists will explain their estimates of how many fish are left in the seas, and what this implies in practice for fishermen. Seminar participants will then be able to discuss what needs to be done in order to manage these fisheries sustainably.

Commissioner Damanaki said: “Scientific advice needs to be at the root of decision-making. We need to look at the scientific facts about fish stocks and draw the right conclusions for management. This meeting will provide us with an excellent opportunity to do just that.

“I am very much looking forward to being at the seminar and I hope for a full audience and a lively discussion.”

The seminar, which is organised by the Commission, will have participants from the fishing industry, scientists and researchers, conservation organisations and NGOs.

It will take place from 9am to 4.30pm in the Albert Borschette Conference Centre, 36, rue Froissart, Brussels. It is open to the press and public but pre-registration is required.

To attend, please e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for an invitation.