Such measures may have particular relevance for the future, given that the regional control of fisheries will be at the heart of the new Common Fisheries Policy.
The workshop programme in Brixham was initiated by The Prince’s International Sustainability Unit (ISU) in collaboration with Seafish. The SFF and a number of constituent Associations attended and made strong contributions to the two-and-a-half day event called, "Charting a Course to Sustainable UK Fisheries".
Fed by a range of high quality presentations delivered by prominent figures from all components of seafood production and associated sectors, delegates spent an intense two-and-a-half days exploring: science and industry collaboration; efficiency and innovation in fisheries; improving sustainability and profitability; awareness raising and communicating with consumers.
“The emphasis throughout was not just on defining problems but crucially, devising practical solutions,” stated Bertie Armstrong, chief executive of the SFF.
One of the topics under discussion was the need to close the gap between real-time fish stock change and the actual scientific assessment process, which often leads to a time lag in advice that doesn’t reflect the current situation on the fishing grounds. The forum investigated ways of accelerating the stock assessment process so as to make it more reactive through the inclusion of practical data from the catching sector.
The event ended with a presentation to the Prince of Wales of the principal conclusions and intended actions to be now pursued. The ISU/Seafish framework which supported the event will continue to help make these aspirations a reality.
