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Welsh fishermen focus on MSC certification of key fisheries |
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Friday, 20 November 2009 16:44 |
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WITH significant funding support from The Co-operative, the Welsh Federation of Fishermen’s Associations is pursuing Marine Stewardship Council Certification for a range of fisheries within the inshore waters of Wales.
A number of these fisheries have already been the subject of pre assessment reports, produced by Moody International and with the financial support of WWF Cymru.
These include the pot fishery for Lobster and Brown Crab, a trial small scale pelagic trawl fishery for Sprat, fisheries for Sea Bass using net, longline and rod and line and the pot fishery for Prawn (Palaemon serratus).
In addition, the Federation is seeking pre assessment reports for the Mackerel handline fishery and the Scallop dredge fishery within the six nautical mile limit.
Commenting on the initiative, Jerry Percy, Chief Executive to the Federation said: “Members are grateful to WWF Cymru who were able to support the initial work and especially to The Co-operative for its generous contribution that will allow these fisheries to continue towards MSC certification by matching European funding. Not only does this reflect recognition of the potential sustainability of the inshore sector, but also provides the opportunity for the Welsh fleet to match their efforts with the MSC Principles and Criteria for Sustainable Fishing.”
Dr John Fish, Chairman of the Federation said that on behalf of the fishing industry in Wales he welcomed the support provided by WWF and The Co-operative and that the reports produced would form the basis of the long term management plans so necessary to secure the future of the inshore fishery sector in Wales.
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