Fisheries management measures within "Natura 2000 sites" are possible under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Member States can take non-discriminatory measures to minimise the effects of fishing on the conservation of the marine ecosystem within 12 nautical miles of their coast (6 nautical miles in the case of Greece). Detailed information can be found here.

The ban of beach seining by May 31st, 2010, demanded by Council Regulation 1967/2006 is unlikely to cause major social or economic problems, as the beach seining season is already limited to six months. During the rest of the year beach seiners routinely fish with trammel nets. Enforcement of the ban would therefore result in these boats (N=24) fishing with trammel nets year-round.

To prevent more ecosystem damage and loss of marine biodiversity, and waiting for the design of long-term management measures, the Greek Authorities could immediately adopt Emergency Measures in the framework of EC Regulation 2371/2002 (Articles 7 and 8). Emergency Measures could also be adopted through Presidential Decrees or Ministerial Decisions (legislative framework described in Law 420/70, as modified by Law 1740/87).

In the framework of the European Fisheries Fund (Regulation 1198/2006) there are options such as the financing of measures including the temporal closure of certain fisheries or increase of gear selectivity. These measures may be adopted if the Greek Government proposes them in its National Operating Plan for Fisheries.

Alternative opportunities and/or compensations may be offered to fishermen who are forced to leave their jobs. An option that needs to be considered is that of coastal fishing tourism, which would require an adjustment of relevant legislation.

In addition, the conservation and mapping of Posidonia beds, corraligenous habitat and maerl beds as provided by Council Regulation 1967/2006 is of utmost importance.