June 9, 2016 — The following was released by the Maine Department of Marine Resources:
Governor Paul R. LePage today released a letter to Daniel Calleja Crespo, Director General for Environment of the European Commission, strongly encouraging the EU to deny the Swedish government’s attempt to have American Lobster listed as an invasive species.
Governor LePage reiterated a major point included in a response to a Swedish government risk assessment by a team of biologists from Maine, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Virginia. “The risk of establishment is minimal, and a prohibition on import is not the appropriate measure of response at this time,” wrote Governor LePage.
His letter also highlighted weaknesses in the Swedish government’s risk assessment submitted to the European Union earlier this year. “The risk assessment study provides inadequate scientific basis for the petition and as such it should be denied,” wrote Governor LePage.
The Governor acknowledged the European Union’s interest in addressing risks to its marine resource, and stressed Maine’s shared commitment. “Like the EU, we take the risk of any possible ecological threats to our fisheries very seriously and fully appreciate that the European Union is seeking to protect the health of its own marine resources.”
Governor LePage underscored the need for solutions that will allow the continuation of trade that benefits the US, Canada and the EU. “Consumers are seeking a premium live product from Maine and North America,” wrote Governor LePage. “The US and Canada have developed a fishery that can provide this to Europe in a timely manner. Appropriate traceability and accountability within the supply chain can maximize benefits and minimize risk to EU importers, consumers and the environment.”