Newlyn firm fined.

A solemn day in court has finally brought a measure of closure to a tragic chapter for Newlyn’s fishing community. Stevenson & Sons has been fined £100,000, alongside nearly £28,000 in costs, following the heartbreaking death of 20-year-old apprentice engineer Conor Moseley.

Back in November 2019, Conor tragically lost his life when a fire suppressant system accidentally activated in the cramped engine room of the beam trawler Resurgam, filling the space with a toxic aerosol cloud. While the judge acknowledged that the main responsibility fell on the system's manufacturer—a company that has since gone into liquidation—Stevenson & Sons pleaded guilty to health and safety failings regarding the safe management of contractors and staff on board.

During the sentencing, the judge rightly pointed out that a seven-year wait for an investigation to conclude is simply unforgivable. Seven years is far too long for a grieving family to wait for justice, and the poignant statement read by Conor's mother served as a stark reminder of the devastating, lasting human cost behind such incidents.

The court heard that the fishing firm has cooperated fully throughout the complex investigation and has since implemented updated health and safety measures and improved training for its staff.

Lasting legacy:

Sandra Pascoe and Tracy Moseley remembering Conor Moseley

This case is a reminder of why continuous investment in safety protocols and modern training infrastructure is so vital for the harbour. It strongly reinforces the need for dedicated facilities like the new Marine Skills Resource Centre in Newlyn. In a fitting tribute to a young man who was so proud to work among the fleet, Conor's family asked for this new centre to be dedicated to his memory—a lasting legacy to help ensure that the next generation of marine apprentices can learn their chosen trade in the safest possible environment.

The new Marine Skills & Resource Centre in Newlyn, operated in partnership with Seafood Cornwall Training, offers a comprehensive range of maritime courses designed to help local people gain their qualifications without having to travel away from the harbour.

The training programmes available for both new entrants and experienced seafarers include:

Sea Survival: Essential techniques for staying safe in emergency situations.

Firefighting: Crucial practical skills for tackling fires at sea.

First Aid and Safety: Core medical training tailored for maritime environments.

Engineering: Technical training for operating and maintaining vessel machinery.

Watchkeeping and Navigation: Skills required for safely guiding and monitoring a vessel.

Radio Operation: Communications training for commercial crews.

Skipper's Tickets: Official qualifications required to operate commercial fishing boats.

By delivering these essential courses right on The Strand, the centre aims to make it much easier to recruit and train aspiring fishermen and related fishing trades, ensuring the fleet operates as safely and efficiently as possible.