The document outlines proposals to change the membership of the board - which could be voted in this year.

Some of its proposals, including its ruling that new boat owner commissioners must be a registered owner of a fishing boat seven metres or more in length, have come under fire.

There are claims that this ruling disqualifies fishermen with a lifetime of experience who have downsized their boat.

Plans to appoint an advisory board have also been criticised.

The document states that the commissioners "shall consult upon the board on all matters substantially affecting the management, maintenance, improvement, conservation, protection or regulation of the harbour and its navigation".

In a letter published in The Cornishman this week, Nick Howell of the Pilchard Works in Newlyn, describes the document as "more of the same with a patronising addition of an 'advisory body' which they can choose to ignore".

In a statement, the board of commissioners said: "There is much to consider, the commissioners themselves have a wide range of views and feel that it may be of assistance to hold a meeting on the issues towards the end of the month. It may well be that any concerns put forward can be resolved before then."

The statement continued by relaying the commissioners' preference to retain a Cornwall County Council representation with a local balance if permitted, and stated: "It may well be seen at the end of the consultation period that the commissioners, in view of the time that has elapsed since discussions began some years ago, that other radical changes are also proposed."

A copy of the document is available from the harbour office in Newlyn on 01736 362523 or the Department of Transport on 0207 944 8300.

article copyright THE CORNISHMAN 

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