MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency
Falklands Councillors petition European Commission on Rules of Origin
While attending the European Union's Overseas Countries and Territories Association in Brussels recently, Falkland Islands Councillors Mike Summers and Dr Andrea Clausen discussed the need for change to the Rules of Origin of fishermen, with regard to the Falklands fishery.
The Rules of Origin state that in order for any fishing vessel to be eligible to offload their goods tax free into the European Union (EU), fifty percent of the crew must be of EU origin.
Currently, the Falklands have a derogation from this rule which states that ships fishing in Falklands waters must have a twenty five percent EU crew, but this is due to expire in 2007.
Councillor Clausen explained that the derogation, "was supposed to be a short term fix" to the problem, but went on to say that rather than an extension to the derogation, what was really needed in the long term was a change in the Rule of Origin. "What we're looking at is petitioning the Commission for a change in the Rules of Origin," Dr Clausen said, adding, "Councillor Summers, myself, and other members will contribute to a paper which we hope to put to the Commission, selling the Falklands' case as to the best way forward for us."
This move has been encouraged by the fact that the European Commission is going to introduce new Rules of Origin for African, Caribbean and Pacific countries (ACP). Dr Clausen said, "It seems only reasonable to do the same for the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT) ? it is very unfair to have a new system for them and not for us."
Councillor Clausen said the Rules of Origin may need to be reviewed, "in light of the OCTs themselves." She added, "It could be that we need a system that's slightly different to what best suits the ACPs."
Returning from her first overseas trip representing the Falkland Islands as an elected member, Councillor Clausen said, "It became very clear to me that if you are not there, pushing what you want, you will miss the boat." She added, "It is essential to be in these places and putting our case across, especially as this has huge implications for our economy ? the fishing sector in particular but also meat and other areas too." "We have to be proactive in these things," Dr Clausen said.
Rob Burnett - Stanley
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