The committee unanimously agreed that during the European Parliament hearing on fisheries and maritime affairs, Dr Borg “showed a particular interest in the needs of the industry and, in so doing, seems determined and prepared to restore its confidence.”

In the letter, signed by chairman Philippe Morillon, the committee explained that Dr Borg developed the priorities he would set in the fisheries sector during his term of office at the Commission. He also addressed the maritime affairs aspect of his portfolio.

During the debate, the Commissioner-designate answered many questions on, inter alia, the following aspects of the common fisheries policy (CFP): continuation of CFP reform, the new rules on application of the CFP to the Mediterranean, international fisheries agreements and European Parliament involvement in regional fishery organisations, small-scale fishing, aquaculture, CFP monitoring and control, regional advisory committees, the principle of relative stability, fleet policy, the CFP's social dimension and policy on safety at sea, scientific opinions, problems concerning the outermost regions, TACs and quotas, relations with certain northern countries (Russia, Norway and Baltic countries), the new European Fisheries Fund, and stock recovery plans.

The fisheries committee said Dr Borg committed himself in particular to promoting sustainable fishing and to paying special attention to living conditions for fishermen and fishing communities by means of a long-term partnership, without losing sight of issues concerning the environment, transport, energy, research, tourism and regional policy.

“He undertook to maintain ongoing dialogue with Parliament, on an official footing, and to step up this committee's role,” the letter continued.

The hearing was conducted in a cordial and positive atmosphere and, overall, the undertakings given by the Commissioner-designate were welcomed by the members present.

“The Commission has put forward a candidate who is sound in the established political sense.

He comes from a country where fishing is an important sector of the economy. He displayed a determination to cooperate with Parliament.

At a time when the codecision procedure is about to be introduced for fisheries, should the constitutional treaty be adopted, that is of paramount importance,” the letter said.