Recommendation GFCM/36/2012/2 on the mitigation of incidental catches of cetaceans in the GFCM area of application.

This Recommendation lays down rules aiming at reducing the bycatch of cetaceans in the GFCM area of application, thus contributing to improve the conservation status of these animals, in line with an ecosystem approach to fisheries management. Contracting parties and cooperating non-contracting parties shall take actions to study, monitor, prevent, mitigate and eliminate incidental catch of cetaceans during fishing operations. To this end, contracting parties and cooperating non-contracting parties shall prohibit gillnet fisheries using monofilament greater than 0.5 mm; and require vessels flying their flag to promptly release alive/unharmed cetaceans that have been incidentally caught and brought alongside the vessel. Moreover, contracting parties and cooperating non-contracting parties shall collect information on incidental catch rates of cetaceans and forward to the GFCM Secretariat.