The Cornish FPO (CFPO) has expressed its deep concern over the recommendation for a zero total allowable catch (TAC) for pollack in area VII. The organization, which represents the fishing industry in Cornwall, has warned that such a measure would be "devastating" for many vessels in the region.
Chris Ranford, chief executive of the CFPO, said that a zero TAC would have a "massive impact" on the pollack fishery, which is a vital source of income for many fishermen in the South West. He warned that it would force many boats to switch to other species like hake, putting further pressure on those stocks instead as well as livelihoods.
The CFPO is urging the government to reconsider its position and adopt alternative management measures instead of a zero TAC. Mr Ranford said that fishermen are willing to play their part in conserving the pollack stock and are open to considering measures such as increasing the minimum size of pollack or introducing a seasonal closure.
The CFPO is also planning to engage with French and Irish fishermen to discuss their priorities for managing the pollack stock. Mr Ranford said that it is important to get some certainty for fishermen about what they will be able to catch next year.
The Maverick, skippered by Dave Smith fishes exclusively for pollack using hook and line...
once caught, his fish is instantly placed in slush ice in insulated tubs to ensure the fish is kept in the very best condition - one of many boats that have helped put pollack on the menu again.
Line caught pollack with its tag certify its provenance. |
Key points
- The CFPO is concerned about the recommendation for a zero TAC for pollack in area VII.
- A zero TAC would have a "devastating" impact on the pollack fishery in the South West.
- The CFPO is urging the government to reconsider its position and adopt alternative management measures.
- Fishermen are willing to play their part in conserving the pollack stock.
- The CFPO is planning to engage with French and Irish fishermen to discuss their priorities