Between 16 and 18 October, a fisheries management engagement pilot event was held in St. Ives, Cornwall. It brought together commercial fishers, regulators and government.
A milestone in fisheries management
The event was the first of its kind, organised in partnership with the Cornish Fish Producers’ Organisation (CFPO), the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO), the UK Association of Fish Producer Organisations (UKAFPO), the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) and Defra.
As a pilot, it was a true test of new ways of working, where attendees worked through a number of issues on topics important to Cornwall. These included talking through:
- how we might implement crab and bass management actions in the published fisheries management plans (FMPs)
- priorities for stocks and management in the developing Celtic Sea and Western Channel demersal FMP
- how to improve engagement on annual consultations
- priorities for any future funding
- the marine spatial pressures and need for better management of the marine environment.
These formal discussions were supplemented by informal discussions, important for building relationships, and a tour of the fish lofts and harbour.
One of the key successes of the event was the strong level of engagement and energy from all attendees.
This event has reinforced the importance of trust between government, regulators and industry. Many attendees appreciated the opportunity to engage face-to-face, which helped dispel some common misconceptions and allowed for more empathetic conversations.
What’s next?
Looking ahead, all those involved in the organisation of the event are committed to using the discussions to help shape next steps in fisheries management So, we’re already preparing a report from the event, which will be published.
We will consider whether, and how, we might roll this sort of event out, by considering the feedback received. In the meantime, there will be plenty of other opportunities for other stakeholders from all sectors and in other locations to get involved in the future as we develop FMPs.
Find details of the in-person coastal engagement to support the consultation on the next five Defra-led FMPs on Book your place on one of our consultation events – Fisheries Management Plans.
REMINDER – our Joint Fisheries Statement consultation also remains live until 21 November please submit your views here – Joint Fisheries Statement: proposed amendments to Annex A - GOV.UK
2 comments
Comment by Greg posted on
When will there be a similar event for recreational sea angling stakeholders?
Comment by Nicola Lewellen posted on
Thank you for your interest and for raising this, we are committed to engaging all stakeholders, including those in the recreational sea angling community.
While there are no events specifically planned at this stage, please rest assured that we are listening to your feedback and considering how we can make our engagement more inclusive.
We’ll keep everyone updated on future engagement opportunities- thank you for your patience.