E - Iccat

ICCAT REPORT 2012-2013 (I)
7.3 SCRS research recommendations
The SCRS Chair first presented recommendations with financial implications, noting that these would also be
brought to STACFAD. He asked that the Panel support bringing in outside experts to assist in assessments of
swordfish to occur next year and send their national scientists. He also requested that the Commission continue
financial support for the Enhanced Billfish Research Program. The Chair mentioned that the study by the EU on
sharks would be very important and would influence the SCRS’ research program on sharks. For the Sub-
Committee on Ecosystems, the SCRS Chair recommended that a technical expert be hired to expedite the
completion of harmonized forms for the submission of data in accordance with Rec. 10-10. Finally, the SCRS
Chair requested that ICCAT establish a Research Year Programme for Small Tunas in order to improve data on
those species.
The SCRS Chair then presented other recommendations without financial implications. The SCRS recommended
changing Paragraph 8 of Rec. 11-03 on Mediterranean swordfish to correctly reproduce the weight conversion
factors. They also recommended conducting a study of billfish in the Atlantic to help with identification
problems. With regard to sharks, the SCRS requested more data on sharks from both ICCAT and non-ICCAT
fisheries. Finally, the Sub-Committee on Ecosystems requested that ICCAT’s cooperation with the Inter-
American Convention for the Protection and Conservation of Sea Turtles be strengthened via a Memorandum of
Understanding and encouraged CPCs to conduct research on sea turtle population genetics.
8. Other matters
There were no other matters brought to the attention of the Panel.
The statements of the observers of Oceana and the Pew Environment Group are attached as Appendices 11 and
12 of ANNEX 9, respectively.
9. Adoption of the report and adjournment
The 2012 meeting of Panel 4 was adjourned.
The Report of Panel 4 was adopted by correspondence.
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