MEPs call for boost to aquaculture research funds
The European Parliament has called for an increase in funding for research into aquaculture. In an own initiative report, French MEP Hughes Martin indicated his support for the Commission's strategy on the future of aquaculture, as laid out in a communication outlining the reform of the common fisheries policy. The report, adopted by the Parliament, also calls on the Commission to 'step up research in all areas of aquaculture without exception.' Further research is needed so as to protect the environment, assess food safety and to develop new farming techniques, say MEPs. Parliament also called for the financial instrument for fisheries guidance to be amended so that the sector becomes eligible for new types of financial support.