Cornwall Fisheries FMP update:
Following up on our previous insights from the Developing Cornwall’s Fisheries engagement pilot event held in St Ives last October, we're pleased to announce that the summary report from this crucial gathering has now been published and shared.
For those who attended the three-day pilot, you'll find a comprehensive overview of the discussions that took place. The report encapsulates the breadth of topics covered, from the intricate challenges surrounding the management of vital bass, crab, and lobster fisheries through Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs), to the exploration of more sustainable methods for demersal fishing. The event also fostered important conversations around negotiations, potential future funding avenues, and the key priorities for the fishing industry in Cornwall.
You can access the full report here or read it below:
Just as a reminder, the pilot event in October 2024 brought together a diverse group of stakeholders in St Ives. Commercial fishing industry representatives and government officials from Defra and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) joined forces with the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO), the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations (NFFO), and the UK Association of Fish Producer Organisations (UKAFPO). This collaborative workshop aimed to address pressing issues and collectively explore solutions for the sustainable management of fisheries in Cornish waters. It was a significant step in our ongoing commitment to co-design and deliver effective measures for the future of our fisheries, working hand-in-hand with those who have a direct stake.
The value of this pilot event lay in creating an open and honest space. It allowed everyone involved, from policy makers to those working tirelessly at sea, to voice their perspectives on what is currently working and, crucially, what isn't. Perhaps the most significant outcome was the fostering of face-to-face connections and the breaking down of any existing misconceptions between the industry and government bodies. Looking ahead, the organizers have established clear actions with defined timelines to ensure the momentum from this event continues.
So, what's next on the horizon? A follow-up meeting is scheduled for April 2025, where attendees will reconvene to review the progress made and gain a clear understanding of how the actions identified during the pilot are being implemented.
One of the key actions highlighted was the critical need to clarify the roles and responsibilities within FMP governance – essentially, how these vital management plans are managed and by whom. Keep an eye on Through the Gaps, as our next blog post will delve into this important aspect in more detail.
The publication of this report marks another important step forward in collaboratively shaping a sustainable future for Cornwall’s fisheries. We encourage you to read the report and stay tuned for further updates on the progress being made.