26. While expressing support for the implementation of port State measures to combat IUU fishing, one Expert expressed reservations on certain aspects of the framework of the MOU as discussed. The Expert expressed the view that these measures may not be as effective as other options designed to prevent, deter and eliminate IUU fishing. All measures should be pursued in combination if such fishing is to be addressed in a comprehensive manner. The Consultation agreed that all necessary steps should be taken to ensure that the implementation of port State measures did not adversely affect legally authorized vessels.
27. A Resource Person informed the Consultation that the IMO Assembly at its 22nd Session adopted Resolution A.925(22) on “Entry into force and implementation of the 1993 Torremolinos Protocol and the 1995 STCW-F Convention”. He also invited the Consultation to note that some port State inspections were already carried out on the basis of MARPOL 73/78 Convention. He also noted that when the instruments referred to above entered into force, these may contribute more effectively towards harmonizing the port State control regimes addressing safety of navigation and prevention of pollution with regimes addressing IUU fishing and related matters.
28. The Resource Person further stressed the need to develop incentives and to promote cooperation between interested States (i.e. port States, flag States, States of nationality of the crew and States of final destination of the catch) in order to enhance the efficiency of port State control regimes.
