2010-2014: 5 years and 5 accomplishments I'm most proud of
When I stood before the European Parliament as designated Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries on 19 January 2010 I made a pledge:
- A pledge to reform the EU's Common Fisheries Policy; to bring fish stocks back to sustainability, stop waste, and bring decisions closer to those who are directly affected.
- A pledge to apply the same sustainability standards whether fishing at home or abroad, whilst making sure not to compromise on democratic principles and human
rights.
- A pledge to create a level playing field for our fishing industry by getting serious about compliance and combatting illegal fishing.
The same year, an unprecedented economic crisis hit Europe. The living standard of Europeans was affected and millions of people, oſten young, were leſt jobless. To me, these changing realities meant that my policy, both fisheries and maritime, took on more importance.
More than ever, every aspect of sustainability – social, economic, environmental – needed to be prioritised. Long term growth and quality jobs were the target. And so was born our 'Blue Growth' strategy which aims to tap into the growth potential stemming from our seas and oceans.
Read more about the 5 accomplishments I am most proud of here.
