Domain 1 is a complex region where multiple interests and activities coexist, including research and fishing activities. The complexity of its management is reflected in the numerous discussions held at the Commission, the Scientific Committee and the Working Groups during recent years. These have included the increase of the catch level of krill (CM 51-07), the development of a risk assessment and the feedback management strategy, and lately the designation of a Marine Protected Area. In addition, considering the significant increase in the environmental variability and climate trends observed in the region, coupled with the difficulties associated with disentangling the different factors driving such changes, a new approach involving the views of multinational experts is required, in order to identify the best way to manage the fisheries in the region. The Domain 1 complex scenario and its difficulties have been recognized by WG-EMM and considered by the Scientific Committee. Following discussions held during the WG-EMM-17, the Working Group agreed with the proposal to create a Domain 1 MPA Expert Group (WG-EMM report para. 4.21). This paper introduces the Expert Group to the Scientific Committee and presents the draft Terms of Reference to be discussed during its 2017 meeting.
In this regard, Argentina and Chile propose that the Scientific Committee considers the creation of a Domain 1 MPA Expert Group and its Terms of Reference, and invite Members and Observers to comment on the proposal.