Blue Fish Europe has announced that Javier Touza, President of both Blue Fish Spain and of the Vigo Shipowner’s Co-operative (ARVI), takes over as the new President of Blue Fish Europe.
Javier Touza replaces BlueFish founder Olivier Le Nezét, who will remain closely involved with the work of the NGO with its policy of promoting sustainable fisheries.
‘I am proud and honoured to take on the Presidency of Blue Fish Europe, after three years of outstanding results: today 50% of European stocks are fished sustainably, up from less than 10% in 2009,’ Javier Touza said.
The announcement was made during Blue Fish Europe’s annual exhibition in the European Parliament, hosted by Galician MEP José Blanco López.
‘My work as a member of the PECH Committee showed me how important it is for policymakers to know about the reality of sustainable fishing. That is why I really appreciate the work Blue Fish has conducted over the past three years. Today, I am very pleased to see a fellow Galician leading the organisation,’ José Blanco López said.
‘We pride ourselves that today’s European fishing sector is the most controlled, sustainable and responsible in the world,’ Olivier Le Nézet commented, adding that Blue Fish Europe remains strongly committed to making Europe lead the way to a future of sustainable fishing.
‘Our ambition remains to safeguard marine resources, while supporting the socio-economic dynamism of European coastal communities,’ he said.
