Commission protects dolphins and small cetaceans in the Bay of Biscay

The Commission adopted on 30 September a delegated act establishing measures in the Bay of Biscay by 2025 to prevent incidental catches of dolphins and other small cetaceans caused by fisheries. These measures are the subject of a joint recommendation by Belgium, Spain, France and Portugal. Unless the European Parliament or the Council objects within the next two months, the delegated act will enter into force to close the Bay of Biscay to fishing vessels over eight metres from 22 January to 20 February 2025.

The approximately 300 vessels concerned will have to remain in port to avoid incidental catches of small cetaceans during the winter, a period identified by scientists as a high risk period for by-catches. In addition to the one-month fishing ban, these measures include the mandatory use of acoustic deterrent devices and a year-round monitoring programme for small cetaceans, using on-board observers and cameras.

These measures aim to address the recurrent problem of winter strandings of dolphins and small cetaceans off the Bay of Biscay. The Commission will continue to monitor the situation closely in the coming year and will assess whether further measures are necessary.

Further information: European Commission