Monitoring of pathogenic agents in cultured molluscs
The European Commission has published a call for expressions of interest for a study involving scientific monitoring to demonstrate whether or not cultured molluscs, other than oysters, from different regions of the European Union carry the pathogenic agents of certain diseases of flat oysters. The study must cover all species of cultured molluscs and in particular mussels. In addition to their marketing in the EU for human consumption, there is a large market for molluscs for reimmersion in water. In some regions of the EU there is a programme aimed at defining areas recognized to be free of diseases caused by Marteilia Refringens and Bonamina Ostreae, which affect flat oysters. These programmes provide for a ban in the areas concerned on replacing in the water molluscs which do not come from an area with the same status. Other programmes limiting reimmersion will soon be approved. Trade is thus gradually being restricted. A derogation to Directive 91/67/EEC establishing EU rules in this field is possible if it is shown by practical experience or scientific data that molluscs other than flat oysters do not transmit these pathogenic agents. Priority will be given to proposals drawn up by partners from several Member States working in collaboration. In the case of group bidders, the bodies qualified to submit tenders may take any legal form recognized by the Member State, including research institutes and universities. Expressions of interest should be sent by registered post to: European Commission Directorate-General for Fisheries Attn. Mrs. Penas Jiminez 99 rue Joseph II (Office 2/35) B-1049 Brussels