Fishermen - Please take a few minutes to give your opinion on Discards Policy and Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM)

Fishermen - Please take a few minutes to give your opinion on Discards Policy and Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM)

Seafish/Cefas – Commercial Fishing Gear Survey This joint Cefas / Seafish survey is for active commercial UK fishers, working in all fisheries. The aim of this 10 minute survey is to gather fishers views on changing their fishing gear to minimise unwanted catches. This includes improvements already made and the potential to make new changes. We are interested in the experiences of fishers when trying to change gear, including the obstacles and benefits.

There are also questions on accessing fishing gear information, to help us understand fishers’ needs to support a transition to more sustainable fishing practices.

The results will be published in a joint Seafish-Cefas report, which will contribute to the responses to the Defra consultations on Discards Policy and Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM). In addition, these results will be discussed by the UK Gear Forum and help to inform its work programme.

The survey will be live for six weeks (closing Friday 17th November 2023).

Click here for the survey

Failed your MCA roll test? One man's story.

Yesterday, the Fisheries All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) discussed a range of fishing industry safety issues - from crew working practices to seaworthiness. Much of the discussion in relation to every area related to criticism of the competence of surveyors for bodies like the MCA, Defra and the MMO. 

In particular, much was made of the lack of awareness by surveyors of small, especially under 10m vessels and the severe consequences of falling foul of the rules. A perfect example is that of Tristan below, who is in the process of righting (pun intended) what they perceive is a great wrong. A full report on the APPG meeting will be made on TtGaps soon.

Tristan tells the story so far:

"Afternoon everybody I'm sorry for posting these lengthy posts but I want to realise the position I'm in and many other fisherman who fish inshore on thier vessels and have come each night due to thier trusty vessel, to then be told its not safe. On the 20th of October, under the clear sky with dry and sunny weather, I conducted my own roll test. I want to clarify at the outset that I consider this test insufficient to depict my vessel's true behavior at sea - It is my firm belief that the most qualified judge of a vessel's seaworthiness is the individual at the helm.

However, given the circumstances, I felt compelled to undertake the test to alleviate any doubts about Adela's safety. The test was conducted using a reference mark on the hull, which was derived by dividing the widest part of Adela (3.8m) by 8, resulting in a mark of 0.475m. Three sets of rolls were executed, ensuring that the vessel was away from the pontoon and ropes were loose. The average results of the three sets were 3.8, 3.7, and 4.1. Adding these averages together and dividing by 3 gave an overall result of 3.8.

To ensure the accuracy of my findings, I conducted another set of rolls with similar methodology, which yielded an overall average of 3.9. To be extra sure, I went live and did a live set of rolls, which gave an overall average of 4. Adding all of these average results together and dividing it by 9 (as there were 3 sets of 3 results) resulted in a final average of 3.9. This is significantly lower than the 4.7 that the MCA test produced. What's more, I noticed that Adela nearly stopped rolling before the last roll, indicating a natural stability that may not be captured in the test's static measurements.

Granted, these tests do not perfectly mirror the way Adela rolls at sea, and I don't believe they should be used to disrupt someone's livelihood, especially when the vessel has proven time and time again to be seaworthy--a testament to her return home each night and her enduring presence even after 50 years.

Yes, Adela rolls, but she has never given me cause to question her safety. It is difficult to accept that a vessel that has served as a trawler off Brixham for over 30 years is suddenly deemed unseaworthy due to a blanket testing approach applied to the small inshore fleet.

Adela is a vessel of heritage and craftsmanship, constructed by master shipwrights who had built thousands of boats before her. She was built in a time when the rules were different, but that does not negate her safety or the skill with which she was constructed. Her robustness and durability are evident, having returned home safely each night for more than 50 years.

To suddenly deem such a vessel unseaworthy based on a test that does not take into account her unique construction and the expertise of those who built and operate her, seems to me to be a grave injustice. It is an imposition of a one-size-fits-all mentality that does not reflect the reality of the small inshore fleet like ours.

While Adela does roll, as any boat at sea does, never have I felt that she was unsafe. I am confident that many others familiar with her would agree. It is my hope that these findings and my experience with Adela will be taken into consideration in any future evaluations of her seaworthiness.The extensive and meticulous research conducted has provided a wealth of evidence that overwhelmingly supports my findings.

On another note the tests were carried out with the Adela fully equipped with all on-board gear, thus mimicking the real-life conditions the vessel would encounter "steaming to grounds." The vessel's performance, when the gear is offloaded or "shot", differs significantly, which is a crucial factor that needs to be taken into account. The vessel's behaviour and operational efficiency have been observed to alter noticeably once the gear is deployed. The testing conditions, therefore, do not fully encapsulate the range of scenarios the vessel might face in its day-to-day operation. In this regard, the tests have certain limitations, and it is essential to approach the results from a nuanced perspective. The test results should be used as a guide, a reference point, and not as an absolute determinant of operational feasibility or the vessel's effectiveness.

It is also crucial to remember the impact these findings can have on the livelihoods of those involved. The tests should inform us, guide us, but they should not be used as a hammer to indiscriminately crush the livelihoods of hardworking individuals who depend on the vessel for their survival. The objective, after all, is to optimise operations and improve safety, not to halt them entirely. Therefore, while the tests provide valuable insights, they should not be viewed as the ultimate authority. They are a tool for improvement, not an instrument of cessation. Recognising the tests' inherent limitations and their potential impact on livelihoods, they should approach the results with a balanced perspective, using them as a guide for improvement rather than a mandate for cessation. 

Time for a cup of tea methinks."

Tristan posted an update yesterday: 

"Afternoon Everybody.  I wanted to provide you with an update on my ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the U15M regulations and the impact they are having on both myself and the entire inshore fleet. As many of you are already aware, the U15M regulations have been a cause of concern for me and others. These regulations, implemented by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and enforced by their surveyors, have introduced significant changes and requirements that directly affect my operations. They have imposed limitations on vessels under 15 meters in length, and navigating the complexities of these regulations has proven to be quite challenging for me. In response to these challenges, I have taken proactive steps to address the situation and highlight its consequences. One of the actions I have taken is reaching out to various individuals and organizations to voice my concerns and seek support.

 

One notable contact I made was with our local Member of Parliament, Anthony Mangnall. I am pleased to inform you that Mr. Mangnall has been receptive to my concerns and has acknowledged the importance of discussing this matter further. Despite my current uncertainty regarding the outcome of a retest, Mr. Mangnall has kindly extended an invitation for a telephone call next week. This call will provide a valuable opportunity for me to delve deeper into the issues surrounding the U15M regulations and explore potential solutions. During our conversation, I intend to provide Mr. Mangnall with a overview of the challenges faced by the inshore fleet as a result of these new regulations. I will highlight the adverse effects these regulations have had on our day-to-day operations, the financial burden they impose on us, and the potential long-term implications for the sustainability of our industry. It is my hope that by sharing this information, we can foster a greater understanding and gather the necessary support to address these concerns effectively. I will keep you updated on the outcome of the telephone call with Mr. Mangnall and any subsequent developments."

Cheers Everybody

Urgent - MCA Medical Assessment - Harbour Master Assessmments and Sea Survival Certificate

This is a shout out from NUTFA to fishermen who are currently sorting their MCA medicals out.

 

"Please would any fisherman make contact with me if he/she has submitted evidence to the MCA medical assessor based on harbour master evidence. I am also seeking fishermen to come forward who have been asked to have a Sea Survival Course in order to obtain an ML5 medical certificate. I understand on both aspects that there are many.

I am concerned regarding potential insurance aspects of those fishers who now have a medical certificate issued on harbour master evidence and would wish to direct the fishers back to the medical assessor and MCA for clarification on the position that they now find themselves in with the withdrawal of support from harbour masters across the country to support evidence towards the medical assessment process. I have been advised by the Harbour Master Association that such evidence submitted is "null and void" and from the advice that NUTFA have taken on the insurance aspect of this difficulty, NUTFA are deeply concerned on the potential issues now at play with regard to potential insurance litigation in the future.

Secondly, I would like to collate numbers on the amount of fishermen who have been advised by the MCA medical assessor to obtain a Sea Survival Certificate as a requirement of the medical examination, particularly where the wet drill in the pool will be difficult or impossible due to conditions such as eczema, pneumonia, long covid, inability to swim, etc. I am also unclear on numbers as to whether the fishing training system will be able to cope with the number of fishermen now seeking to undertake a Sea Survival course imminently and again welcome data on numbers."

Thank you as always for the data/info which is making a huge difference on the current campaign. 

Thanks in anticipation. 

Please email on sarah@nutfa.co.uk or WhatsApp as usual on 07402 089170. 

Sarah Ready NUTFA

More storms on Monday morning in Newlyn

Time-lapse of the Ocean Pride landing to the market this morning.

Plenty of fish arrived over the weekend from every type of boat in the fleet...

with plenty of hake from three netters including the Silver Dawn...

along with haddock...

a few tope...

some unusual 'plus-fours', or greater forkbeard...

hake from the Stelissa...

the redder the gills the fresher the fish...

looks like Ian has been at the tally box again...

and more hake from the Britannia V...

good megrim from the beamer Billy Rowney...

line caught bass...

inshore trawl John Dory...

black bream...

red mullet...

gilt head bream...

and plenty of Dovers...

and monk tails...

along with huge plaice...

and tubs...

while the sardine boats were all able to get shots in last night...

the Ocean Pride made a landing this morning...

though there were not many mackerel on the market...

the Pelagic marksman di land a 160kg bluefin...

and a day;'s work from the inshore trawler, New Venture...

Katy B at the market before sun-up...

decent sized turbot...

and big brill from the Rowney...

and a good shot of pollack from the netter Lola Belle...

and there were a few scallops too...

if only there was a small grader on the market the mackerel men could use...

there morning well and truly disturbed, fresh westerly winds put the local gull population high in the sky...

it takes three to land a big crabber...

this must be one serious sailor at this time of year to be on passage...

we have lift-off...

yet another piece of old telephone cable trawled up...

the boat that caught the bluefiin at rest......

fresh fish on its way to a counter near you...

as the boys on the Ocean Pride let go the ends...

as the Amanda of Ladram heads for the market to land.

 

Newlyn and fishing depicted in fine art auction.

Anyone like to hazard a guess as to who snuck into this work of art painted in the 1960s? See, I knew you knew! 

Marjorie MORT(1906-1989) Landing Fish 

Live online now is a Fine art auction by David Lays of Penzance. Collectors of art and in particular, Newlyn School and contemporary works will no doubt find this latest sale of interest.

Fishing Safety at Sea - play your part in this online event

Fishing Safety at SeaTuesday, October 24, 202310:00 AM 11:30 AM

Safety at sea is a high priority in the fishing industry, with numerous collaborative initiatives actively working towards improving safety in the sector. New innovations, campaigns, and technologies across the UK are being harnessed to create safer working conditions for fishers. By fostering a culture of safety, implementing robust safety management practices and standards, and promoting education and awareness, the industry can strive towards a safer future.

The event, organised in collaboration with The Seafarers' Charity, will showcase a range of national and international initiatives dedicated to enhancing safety in the industry. Drawing upon the expertise of speakers from the fishing sector, we will discuss safety management practices, industry-led initiatives, and the need to shift the dialogue and culture surrounding safety in fishing.

Register to attend the event online here.

Dowload the agenda here.

REGISTER HERE

NEWLYN PIER & HARBOUR COMMISSIONERS’ ADVISORY BOARD VACANCIES

Due to retirements and position changes, Newlyn Pier & Harbour Advisory Board (NPHAB), is seeking expressions of interest from applicants for up to three vacancies.

The purpose of the Advisory Board for Newlyn Harbour is to provide advice to the Newlyn Pier & Harbour Commissioners (NP&HC) on any matter, recommendation or representation that is made to the Board. NP&HC have a duty to consult the Advisory Board on all matters substantially affecting the Newlyn Harbour estate.

The Advisory Board is composed of individuals with an interest in the operation and development of Newlyn Harbour, including representatives from local communities, harbour users, the local economy, local and central government, and others such as employees, MPs and elected representatives.

The Advisory Board meets monthly to consider stakeholder matters and to collate and submit them to the NP&HC or the Harbour Master & CEO. The Board's advice is taken into consideration by the NP&HC when making decisions about the management and development of the harbour.

The Advisory Board plays an important role in ensuring that the views of all stakeholders are considered in the decision-making process at Newlyn Harbour. This helps to ensure that the harbour is managed and developed in a way that benefits all of its users.

Here are some specific examples of the Advisory Board's work:

• Advising the NP&HC on the development of a new strategic plan for the harbour
• Providing input on the development of new facilities and services for harbour users
• Representing the interests of stakeholders in discussions with government and other organizations
• Promoting the harbour and its activities to the wider community

The Advisory Board is a valuable asset to Newlyn Harbour and helps to ensure that it is a well-managed and sustainable port for the benefit of all.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a broad range of skills from all walks of life so if you think you may not be suited, please think again.

Role requirements:

• A voluntary appointment for up to three years
• An interest in the operation and strategic direction of the Port
• An interest and/or experience in fishing, commerce, finance and local community matters
• Attendance at monthly meetings and occasional participation in working groups/sub-committees
• Candidates will be required to provide input to Port policy and strategic planning, and at all times, must act for the overall good of Newlyn Harbour
• An ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, ranging from MPs and local government officers to Newlyn residents and Harbour users.

Expressions of interest

Please send a covering letter and CV to recruitment@newlynharbour.com, to be received no later than 12:00 noon on Wednesday 8th November 2023. Successful candidates shortlisted for interview will be informed during the week commencing Monday 20th November 2023 with interviews scheduled shortly thereafter. Please contact us with any questions via the email address above and we will endeavour to answer them.