Targets
Article 4
1. The target fishing mortality, in line with the ranges of F MSY defined in Article 2, shall be achieved on a progressive, incremental basis by 2020 where possible, and by 1 January 2025 at the latest, for the stocks concerned, and shall be maintained thereafter within the ranges of F MSY . 2. The ranges of F MSY based on the plan shall be requested, in particular from STECF, or a similar independent scientific body recognised at Union or international level. 3. In accordance with Article 16(4) of Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, when the Council fixes maximum allowable fishing effort, it shall establish that fishing effort for each fishing effort group, within the range of F MSY available at that time for the most vulnerable stock. 4. Notwithstanding paragraphs 1 and 3, maximum allowable fishing effort may be set at levels that are lower than the ranges of F MSY . 5. Notwithstanding paragraphs 1 and 3, maximum allowable fishing effort may be set above the range of F MSY available at that time for the most vulnerable stock, provided that all stocks concerned are above the B PA : (a) if, on the basis of the best available scientific advice or evidence, it is necessary for the achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 3 in the case of mixed fisheries; (b) if, on the basis of the best available scientific advice or evidence, it is necessary to avoid serious harm to a stock caused by intra- or inter-species stock dynamics; or (c) in order to limit variations in maximum allowable fishing effort between consecutive years to not more than 20 %. 6. Where ranges of F MSY cannot be determined for a stock listed in Article 1(2) due to a lack of adequate scientific information, that stock shall be managed in accordance with Article 12 until ranges of F MSY are available pursuant to paragraph 2 of this Article.