Experienced fishermen have until March 31 to take advantage of funding toward achieving the new Under 16.5m Skipper's Certificate, one that may soon be mandatory for skippers of all inshore boats.
Supplied by Seafish, the Department for Transport and the European Fisheries Fund, applicants for funding must have more than two years' experience as a fisherman, and already hold the four mandatory certificates for First Aid, Fire Fighting, Safety Awareness and Sea Survival.
The Seafish Under 16.5m Skipper's Certificate studies comprise short courses in Navigation, Engineering, Fishing Vessel Stability and GMDSS Radio Operation. In addition, the certificate is also recognised by the MCA as transferable for use in other maritime industries. For example, says the MCA, it is acknowledged on small commercial vessels of less than 24m in length, boats that carry cargo, and/or no more than 12 passengers. The certificate also entitles the holder to become a watch keeper on any size of fishing vessel.
Simon Potten, safety co- ordinator at Seafish, said, "The funding is only guaranteed until March 31, 2011, so I would urge any fisherman considering training to immediately book themselves onto courses."
Stay one step ahead of the weather
Many potential achievers of the Under 16.5m Skipper's Certificate have already signed up to attend the courses through the Seafish approved Western Training Association, based in Plymouth, said its leader Hazel Bennett.
Training for the Under 16.5m Skipper's Certificate is also taking place at Seafood Cornwall Training based at Newlyn.
To-date, Seafish has issued more than 1,000 Under 16.5m Skipper's Certificates. In addition grants of up to £1,000 are available for fishermen undertaking Class I or Class II MCA Deck and Engineer Officer Certificates of Competency.
Administered by Seafish, the grants can be claimed against any eligible expenditure on training. Full details and more information are contained in the MCA's Marine Guidance Note No. 411, which can be downloaded from the MCA's web-site. Application forms can be obtained from any Seafish-approved training provider, or direct from Seafish on 01472 252302.
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