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1. To the extent possible, Union pelagic longline vessels and Union purse seiners shall promptly release all blue marlin (Makaira nigricans), white marlin (Tetrapturus albidus) and roundscale spearfish (Tetrapturus georgei) that are alive at haul-back, giving due consideration to the safety of the crew members, in a manner that causes the least harm and maximises post-release survival.

2. Member States shall encourage the implementation of the minimum standards for safe handling and live release procedures specified in Annex 1 to ICCAT Recommendation 19-05 by producing guidelines for their fleet. For the safe release of live blue marlins, white marlins and roundscale spearfish caught, Union fishing vessels shall have the following readily available on deck and easily accessible by the crew members: a lifting device, bolt cutter, dehooker or disgorger, and a line-cutter.

3. Member States shall ensure that masters and crew members of their fishing vessels are adequately trained, aware of and use proper mitigation, identification, handling and releasing techniques and keep on board all equipment necessary for the release of blue marlins, white marlins and roundscale spearfish in accordance with the guidelines on minimum standards for safe handling and live release procedures referred to in paragraph 2.

4. Member States shall endeavour to minimise the post-release mortality of blue marlins, white marlins and roundscale spearfish in their ICCAT fisheries.

5. Member States may authorise pelagic longline vessels and purse seiners flying their flag to fish and retain on board, tranship or land blue marlins, white marlins and roundscale spearfish that are dead, within their catch limit.