Cornish MP Steps In to Chair Tuna Licensing Meeting

A public meeting, arranged by Fishing News and set for the morning of May 19th in Newlyn, will be chaired by St Ives MP Andrew George. George offered to mediate in an effort to find a solution agreeable to all stakeholders involved in the contentious issue of 2025 bluefin tuna licenses.

The core of the issue lies in the upcoming 2025 bluefin tuna season, scheduled to begin on July 1st. The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has yet to contact successful commercial sector applicants to confirm their licenses. Last year, 13 licenses were granted, each with a 3-tonne quota. This number has slightly increased to 15 licenses for 2025. However, the licensing process in 2024 left many of the 80 unsuccessful applicants feeling aggrieved. Adding further complexity, Defra has indicated a significant increase in "catch and release" licenses for 2025, sparking worries about potential mortality and its subsequent impact on UK quotas.

Andrew George stated, 

"The return of bluefin tuna is a success, though it presents obvious challenges. I look forward to hearing from expert speakers to ensure we get to the facts about all the risks and opportunities."

"Fisheries minister Daniel Zeichner has told me he is looking forward to hearing how it goes, and if we can draw any conclusions to inform Defra's plans for licence conditions for the 2025 bluefin tuna season, which starts on 1 July."   

George hopes that "our discussion will conclude with an agreeable balance between support for sustainable fishing, allowing the bluefin tuna population to continue to thrive, and effective marine conservation which – amongst many other things – has helped to create these fishing opportunities.”

Progress Beneath the Surface: Cornwall Fisheries Engagement Pilot Report Published

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.

 

New trial awards quota to fishers delivering sustainability and growth

 

UK fishers demonstrating environmental, social, and economic benefits from quota use to be awarded additional quota.

UK fishers demonstrating how they will deliver environmental, social, and economic benefits will be awarded with additional quota this week. Following last year’s successful pilot, the 2025 Quota Application Mechanism trial has been expanded to include English non-sectoral over-10-metre vessels alongside producer organisations with English members. Around 8,658.8 tonnes of quota will be awarded to applicants who scored highest against the environmental, social, and economic criteria based on how they will use the additional allocation.

Measures to be rewarded include:

investments in improved fishing gear, reducing environmental impacts while enhancing selectivity to minimize unwanted catches;

acoustic deterrents to help protect vulnerable marine wildlife by preventing accidental entanglement in fishing gear;

employment of local crew, strengthening coastal communities by providing sustainable livelihoods and preserving traditional fishing heritage;

vessel upgrades focused on crew safety and welfare to ensure that fishing remains a viable career with improved working conditions.

Amongst other stocks, 535 tonnes of North Sea Cod, 1162 tonnes of North Sea Saithe, and 213 tonnes of Western Skates and Rays will be awarded to sectoral and non-sector fishers.

Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:

I’m delighted to see the expanded Quota Application Mechanism rewarding fishers who demonstrate clear commitments to sustainability. By allocating quota based on environmental, social, and economic criteria, we’re charting a new course for UK fisheries that balances conservation with economic prosperity. It’s a vital step towards building a sustainable and profitable fishing industry, as part of our Plan for Change.

Dale Rodmell, Chief Executive of Eastern England Fish Producers Organisation Ltd. said:

We appreciate the efforts made by the government to make a new approach to quota allocation work. It recognises the efforts we are making to realise environmental, social and economic benefits from under-utilised and additional quota resulting from the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

Paul Stone, Director of Stone Marine Services (South West) Ltd, said:

It’s really something to help diversify and enables us to free up more options and rest areas which are tight for quota, helping us to fish sustainably. It’s been life-changing to the company; it makes life easier for the crew and the fish quality is better. It’s nice to be recognised. As a small private company, it means a heck of a lot.

Shaun Hayter, Director of Bubba Shrimp Ltd, said:

Being awarded this quota will make a massive difference. It will keep us fishing all year and the crew busy. It gives other grounds a rest and makes everything financially viable. I’ve been really looking forward to this year and so has the crew. It’s a massive opportunity and seems like a step in the right direction.

The quota has been drawn from England’s additional quota allocation and anticipated underutilised non-sectoral quota. This trial represents a significant shift from standard quota allocation methods, introducing a criteria-based approach that aims to enhance sustainable fisheries management by considering broader environmental outcomes alongside the social and economic interests of fishing communities.

Lessons from this trial will shape how fishing quotas are allocated in the future, helping protect fish stocks and support fishing communities for the long-term.

Further information

The breakdown of tonnages to be awarded as a part of the 2025 Quota Application Mechanism is as follows:

• 535.2 tonnes of North Sea Cod (165.5T of this is to the non-sector)
• 1166.7 tonnes of North Sea Saithe (24.7T of this is to the non-sector)
• 2830 tonnes of North Sea Herring (20T of this is to the non-sector)
• 212.9 tonnes of Western Skates and Rays (75T of this is to the non-sector)
• 3914 tonnes of Western Mackerel (4T of this is to the non-sector)

This is subject to the applicants accepting the Quota.

Eastern England Fish Producers Organisation was awarded:

• 369.7T of Cod North Sea
• 1141.7T of Saithe North Sea
• 155T of Herring North Sea
• 137.9T of Skates & Rays Western
• 1340T of Mackerel Western

Humberside Fish Producers’ Organisation was awarded:

• 2655T of Herring North Sea
• 2570T of Mackerel Western

As part of the conditions for receiving the quota, applicants have committed to delivering a range of benefits including:

Environmental performance

Advanced monitoring technologies like remote electronic monitoring provide real-time data on fishing activities, supporting sustainable management of marine resources.

Investments in improved fishing gear, reducing environmental impacts while enhancing selectivity to minimize unwanted catches.

Participation in scientific studies to contribute vital information that strengthens our understanding of marine ecosystems and stock health.

Fuel-saving techniques to not only reduce operational costs but also lower carbon emissions.

Acoustic deterrents to help protect vulnerable marine wildlife by preventing accidental entanglement in fishing gear.

Social contribution

Employment of local crew, strengthening coastal communities by providing sustainable livelihoods and preserving traditional fishing heritage.

Vessel upgrades focused on crew safety and welfare ensure that fishing remains a viable career with improved working conditions.

Engagement with local apprenticeship schemes to create pathways for young people to enter the industry, securing its future.

Participation in careers fairs to raise awareness about opportunities in the fishing sector, attracting diverse talent to the industry.

Economic benefits

Landings into UK ports stimulate local economies through direct employment and supporting additional dockside businesses.

Supply to local and domestic processors strengthens our food security while adding value to catches within the UK economy.

Use of local business services creates multiplier effects, where fishing activity supports a broader network of maritime and coastal enterprises.

Cuttlefish Fishery Action Plan Published Following Stakeholder Engagement

Following extensive engagement with stakeholders throughout 2024, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has now published its Cuttlefish Fishery Action Plan. The comprehensive document, outlines the MMO's approach to this important fishery in English waters.

The key conclusion of the action plan is that current evidence does not provide a clear indication that the cuttlefish fishery is being exploited beyond sustainable limits. As a result, the MMO has stated that it is not looking to introduce any formal management measures at this time.

However, the action plan emphasizes a commitment to the long-term sustainability of the fishery and outlines a series of actions relating to evidence gathering, sustainability initiatives, and the social and economic goals of the wider Fisheries Management Plan (FMP). A detailed list of these actions can be found on page 7 of the published document.

For the pot and trap fishing fleet, several aspects of the action plan will be of particular interest. These include:

The Voluntary Code of Practice:

A significant element of the action plan is the introduction of a Voluntary Code of Practice. This code provides recommendations for fishing activity within ICES areas 7d and 7e specifically concerning instances where cuttlefish eggs are found attached to pots and traps. It's important to note that this code of practice applies to activity beyond the 6 nautical mile limit. For guidance within the 6 nautical mile limit, local Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs) have their own specific guidelines.

The MMO highlights the importance of adhering to local guidance, such as the good practice guidance provided by Sussex IFCA 

and the cuttlefish code of practice from Southern IFCA 

These local initiatives offer valuable insights into best practices within inshore areas.

The Species ID Guidance Cards:

Recognizing the importance of accurate species-level data for effective monitoring and assessment, the MMO has developed Species ID Guidance Cards. These cards will aid fishermen in identifying the three known species of cuttlefish present in UK waters: the common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis), the elegant cuttlefish (Sepia elegans), and the pink cuttlefish (Sepia orbignyana).

To facilitate improved data collection, the MMO has introduced new species-specific codes for recording catches. These codes are:

• CTC – common cuttlefish
• EJE – elegant cuttlefish
• IAR – pink cuttlefish

While the general code CTL remains in use, the MMO strongly encourages fishermen to utilize the new, more specific codes whenever species can be confidently identified. This enhanced data will contribute significantly to a more detailed understanding of cuttlefish populations and the overall health of the fishery.

The publication of the Cuttlefish Fishery Action Plan marks an important step in ensuring the long-term viability of this fishery. While no immediate formal management measures are being introduced, the emphasis on voluntary practices and improved data collection underscores the commitment to a sustainable future for cuttlefish fishing in English waters. Fishermen are encouraged to review the full action plan and familiarize themselves with the guidance provided.