Commissioner Damanaki's meeting with the Minister for the Protection of the Citizen, Mr Michalis Chrysochoidis

The Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, met in Athens with the Minister for the Protection of the Citizen, Mr Michalis Chrysochoidis, reports www.megafishnet.com with reference to EC.

Maria Damanaki noted some issues regarding Greece's compliance with the Mediterranean Fisheries Regulation that will be applicable as of 1 June 2010 in order to protect the endangered fish stocks and marine environments of Mediterranean. The Commissioner stressed that in order to achieve this goal, the engagement of the Coast Guard is needed, so as to tackle illegal fishing and violations of European legislation for the protection of the marine environment.

Maria Damanaki also asked from the Minister for Greece's participation in the completed Mediterranean Vessel Monitoring System. This system that is promoted by the European Commission will give a complete picture of all the activities in the marine regions, regarding transports, trade, immigration, tourism, fishery, aquaculture, and energy.