ENB:07:16
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TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH (TAC):
There was a mixed reaction to
the concept of Total Allowable Catch. Norway stated that
conservation and management, particularly in relation to Total
Allowable Catch (TAC), should be based on the best scientific data
available from an internationally recognized scientific body. The
EC said that TACs have been applied for 15 years with good results.
It is not an ideal system but it can be improved. Japan suggested
that all regional bodies set TACs throughout a species range if it
is known. It is quite reasonable and appropriate to think of TACs
as applicable to the whole range. Some highly migratory fish stocks
are known to migrate through the EEZs of dozens of coastal States.
If each State establishes its own TAC on account of its sovereign
rights, it is unlikely that a TAC will be set up on the high seas.
Tanzania supported the adoption of TACs within major fisheries
management organizations, but said that other measures should be
considered, including mesh size restrictions, season closures, and
the use of traditional and cultural conservation methods. Morocco
said that TACs are effective when there are powerful regional
authorities in place.