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A NEW and completely radical plan inspired locally to reverse the decline
in the fishing industry has been welcomed by fishery representatives who
say it could turn EU fishing on its head. Invest in Fish South West is
a three-year project which is aiming to deliver a long-term strategy for
managing fishing fleets and the wider marine environment.
The project, which is to draw £1.6 million from the Objective 1
fund and private investors, has been launched in the hope that it will
prevent the industry heading further towards irreversible decline.
Newlyn-based Sam Lambourn, chairman of Invest in Fish South West, said:
"The project is a fresh way of how to manage fish stocks and has
tried to involve everyone who has an interest in the industry.
"I think it is best to keep it as simple as possible, so we have
asked everyone to put forward their ideas.
"It's just so unique, but also very simple. I really don't understand
why it wasn't done years ago."
He said that the project had asked everyone associated with the fishing
industry what they wanted, and what the costs and benefits would be.
"We have always asked the Government for help in the past but this
project is focusing on exactly what needs to be done and how we are going
to get what we want," he explained.
"I certainly feel it is a step in the right direction, but it is
long overdue. Our aim is to satisfy people's requirements and bring back
their faith in fishermen."
The project's liaison officer, Spike Searle, has spent the past few months
visiting the region's ports and harbours to gather fishermen's views on
how they think fisheries should be managed in the future.
He said: "Most fishermen believe that the quota system has failed
completely both as a management tool and as a conservation method.
"However, they have really engaged in the project and have suggested
several interesting and positive alternatives for future management options.
"Many have suggested temporary closures in spawning and nursery
areas, which would allow fish time to spawn and mature and, therefore,
increase their chances of survival."
Invest in Fish project manager Nathan de Rozarieux said: "This pilot
project could really turn EU fishing on its head. Nobody has seen anything
like this before - people have been really positive and very supportive.
"The project has brought fishermen together with high hopes and
expectations. It is completely new and completely radical - but a new
way forward for sustainable fishing."
Elizabeth Stevenson, of Newlyn, said: "I really hope the project
will be successful but I want to see the results come together now. Anything
that will provide the industry with a map for the future is very welcome.
I am an impatient person and I now want to see the evidence and the results.
"The fishing industry has experienced some horrendous problems,
but I believe there is a future if we can get the quotas in line with
the stocks available.
"I know the project is still in its early stages, but it could be
an important part of the jigsaw for the future."
article copyright © THE CORNISHMAN
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