Professor Mike Kaiser Joins Seafish Board

The appointment will run with immediate effect until 31 March 2010.

Seafish was established under the provision of the Fisheries Act 1981 to promote the efficiency of the sea fishing industry and the marketing and consumption of its products. From sea to plate, Seafish delivers expert knowledge, skills and support which help the UK seafood industry to secure a sustainable and profitable future.

The Minister said: "The future of the sea fishing industry depends on it developing in a sustainable way. Seafish is valuable in helping to make this happen, providing advice and support at all levels of the supply chain. I’m sure Professor Kaiser will make a significant contribution in ensuring Seafish is at the forefront of environmental and scientific advice."

Welcoming the appointment, Seafish Chief Executive John Rutherford said: "Professor Kaiser is an acknowledged expert in Marine Conservation and a highly respected and experienced member of the Welsh environmental, scientific and fishing community. We are delighted to welcome him to our board and we look forward to benefiting from his experience and knowledge as we continue to improve the services we offer the seafood industry around the UK."

Board members at Seafish are paid £9,359 per annum reflecting a time commitment of two days per month. These appointments were made in accordance with the Commissioner’s Code of Practice on Ministerial Appointments.

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. In accordance with the original Nolan recommendations any declared political activity of appointees is published. Professor Kaiser has not carried out any political activities in the last five years. He is also a Welsh Assembly Government appointed member of the North Western and North Wales Sea Fisheries Committee – this is an unpaid post.