The 1964-2014 1964-2020

LEADINGSkipper JOURNAL OF THE IRISH & UK INDUSTRIES SEPTEMBER 2020 €3.50/£3.00 SEAFARING GUT INSTINCT Tributes Paid by Galway Paddleboarders after Epic Rescue. See pages 4-5

DIGITAL ISSUE www.theskipper.ie/subscribe/SUBSCRIBENOW Fisherman Patrick Oliver and his son Morgan return to Galway docks. (CREDIT: JOE O’SHAUGHNESSY, CONNACHT TRIBUNE)

SEPTEMBER 2020 SEPTEMBER 2020 3 The The Skipper The Skipper News

Skipper POWER lobster stocks as American Instead, the EU-US deal will SYSTEMS SERVING THE IRISH & UK lobster can potentially carry work to make live exports into the FISHING INDUSTRIES The tragedy of… a shell disease that European EU much more attractive, which lobster have little immunity will likely, as highlighted by to,” they said. “As tariffs are NIFA/NIFO, have a consequent reduced and imported volumes impact on the prices those fishing increase this is likely to become in Ireland get for their lobsters, EDITOR: Lia ní Aodha a more common occurrence.” with the knock-on implication that Mermaid Marine – one of the [email protected] American lobsters are usually their already difficult livelihoods world’s leading providers of Mob: 086 823 9608 olive green or greenish-brown are made more so. marine propulsion packages from and the underside of their Sadly for Irish fishermen, 11hp to 1600hp claws are orange-red. European with Golfgate raging on it is SALES: Sharon Boyle lobsters are blue to dark blue unlikely that the EU Trade [email protected] and the underside of their claws Commissioner is losing much Tel: 074 95 480 37 are generally a cream colour. sleep over their livelihoods. Mob: 086 840 1250 Sweden has previously One thing is for sure, no PRODUCTION /DESIGN: pushed for American lobsters to Minister is. And that is the 01202 677776 | mermaid-marine.co.uk Declan McGrath be regarded by the EU as a pest tragedy, not of the commons, or [email protected] species and potentially invasive, perhaps even the commodity, MANAGING DIRECTOR: Hugh Bonner which would mean a ban on the but simply of Ireland’s sea [email protected] import of live lobsters. fisheries. SUBSCRIPTIONS: [email protected] Tel: 074 95 62828 PRINTED BY: HIGH COURT RULES WG Baird, Antrim, N.I. www.wgbaird.com CONSULTATION PROCESS IN CONTRIBUTORS: C Fish specialises in converting fish by-products Lorna Siggins 6-MILE BAN DECISION FLAWED into pet food ingredients and bait Niall Duffy Craig Taylor, Fresh & Frozen Fishing Baits for the Commercial & Dick James, he High Court has These challenges were fully Gudjon Eirnarsson, ruled in favour of two contested by the Minister, who Angling Fisherman. Weekly Deliveries Nationwide Shetland News Lobster. (Credit: Cathal ó hUallach) Tfishermen who submitted as part of that highlighted that ENQUIRES WELCOME FROM THE UK an application for a judicial more than 900 submissions review into the decision were made and considered as Charlie Vial, Main St, Dunkineely, Co. Donegal, Ireland under a limited trade deal struck domestically, most is sold into taken by the then Minister part of the consultation process, Tel: 074 9737254 Mob: 087 2548208 By Lia ní Aodha by the EU and US tariffs on live European markets. Published monthly by Mara Media, for Agriculture, Food and with a wide variety of views Email: [email protected] Web: www.cfish.ie Annagry, Co Donegal. and frozen lobsters exported According to BIM’s Business the Marine, Michael Creed expressed. On the back of those, www.maramedia.ie nother month, and from the US into the EU would of Seafood report 2019, 100 concerning the ban on trawling the Minister’s assessment was no end in sight for be eliminated, with reductions tonnes of lobster were landed by vessels over 18 metres in that there was a compelling case In the compilation of The Skipper, every care the challenges facing retroactive to begin August 1st. by Irish boats last year, up 52 length inside Ireland’s six-mile for the exclusion of trawling by is taken to ensure accuracy. Where errors or A Ireland’s fishermen and women. In return, the EU would see per cent on 2018 and worth zone. large vessels in the zone. omissions are brought to the attention of Foilseachán na Mara Teo., future publications will No Minister, a no-deal Brexit tariffs slashed by half on a €2 million. As one fisherman The case was taken by Dingle In a judgement handed be amended accordingly. However, Foilseachán once again looking ever more series of items including certain pointed out to me, his few live fisherman Tom Kennedy and down on July 31st, Mr Justice na Mara Teo. does not accept liability to any likely, poor markets and trade- prepared meals, crystal glass, as lobster onboard pays for the LEADING SUPPLIERS OF MARINE SAFETY EQUIPMENT person for loss or damage arising from anything Castletownbere fisherman Neil Michael McGrath ruled that contained in this publication or for any error deals that only make those well as cigarette lighters. boat’s diesel for the day. Minihane, owners of The Celtic there was an unfairness in the or omission in it, even if such loss or damage is markets more difficult, and little Previously, EU tariffs on US Following the news, on Quest, The Fiona K III and the consultation process, which caused by negligence of Foilseachán na Mara recognition... lobster had been eight per cent. their social media page, the Teo., its servants or agents. Opinions and articles Ocean Venture II, whose vessels resulted in noncompliance featured are not necessarily the opinions of Following the fallout from In 2017, an EU-Canada deal— National Inshore Fishermen’s would be excluded from fishing by the Minister with his legal Foilseachán na Mara Teo. the Oireachtas Golf Society’s the Comprehensive Economic Organisation and Association in the six-mile zone on the back obligations. dinner event in Clifden last and Trade Agreement (CETA)— (NIFA/NIFO) said that the of the directive. The unfairness arose as the month, after just 37 days in similarly eliminated tariffs on EU Trade Commissioner’s PRODUCTS: SERVICES: INSIDE THE The ban, which came fishermen were not aware that •LIFERAFTS •LIFEJACKETS •LIFERAFT SERVICING post Dara Calleary resigned imported lobsters to the EU. welcoming of the deal was into effect on January 1st of a particular option, which was •RESCUE BOATS •H.R.U. ’s •LIFEJACKET SERVICING SEPTEMBER ISSUE •IMMERSION SUITS •IMMERSION SUIT SERVICING as Minister for Agriculture, Announcement of the being described by their this year following a public subsequently decided on (i.e. •PYROTECHNICS •HIRE LIFERAFTS •BOARDING LADDERS Dept of Transport & SOLAS approved service station P 4-5 Food and the Marine. At the deal was made by US Trade members “as another kick in the consultation on the matter, that trawling by vessels over time of writing it is still not Representative Robert teeth.” subject to a phasing out of sprat 18m in length inside the six- Tributes Paid by Galway CROAGHLIN, KILLYBEGS, CO. DONEGAL clear when a new Minister will Lighthizer and EU Trade The deal, they said, would fishing over a two year period mile zone be phased out), had T: 074 97 41760 F: 074 97 41763 E: [email protected] Paddleboarders after Epic be instated, leaving the Irish Commissioner Phil Hogan. likely depress Irish lobster from then, was challenged by already been recommended to Rescue fishing industry without even “As part of improving EU- prices further – worrying the fishermen who fish within the Minister by Department P 6 a semblance of a Minister as US relations, this mutually considering how depressed the zone for herring, bull officials. This preferred Supreme Court rules in favour they face into the very real beneficial agreement will prices are already due to mackerel and sprat for three option, he ruled, should have of fishermen in Porcupine case possibility that no deal will be bring positive results to the the havoc wreaked by the months of the year on a number been outlined to the affected reached between the UK and economies of both the United COVID-19 pandemic on P 24-25 of grounds. stakeholders before a final the EU before January 1st. States and the European Union. traditional markets. Claiming the directive decision was taken. This was not Boats, Gear As the latest round of talks We intend for this package of Biosecurity concerns was unlawful, the fishermen done. and Products concluded, Michel Barnier said tariff reductions to mark just the were raised also, given the sought a number of orders, Though the Court did not P 32 a post-Brexit trade deal “seems beginning of a process that will potentially invasive nature including the quashing of the rule that a second consultation unlikely” at this stage. Fisheries lead to additional agreements of American lobster, and the Risks and opportunities for directive, a declaration that would or should be undertaken, remains a contentious issue. that create more free, fair, and multiple instances where they the directive was made in it did rule that the fishermen, demersal fisheries in warming Meanwhile, as the global reciprocal transatlantic trade,” have already been caught in the seas breach of fair procedures, of as stakeholders, were entitled pandemic continues to impact said Ambassador Lighthizer and wild in European waters, having the Common Fisheries Policy to succeed on that ground, seafood markets, among Commissioner Hogan. been released (or maybe making and of their rights their rights. and invited parties to make Marine & General Insurance Brokers. “Insuring Your World Today” Ireland’s inshore fishermen, After brown crab and whelks, a break for it) after being As part of this, they argued the submissions by electronic trans-Atlantic trade deals are lobster is one of Ireland’s most imported. consultation process adopted means on the form of order also causing concern. Bad for significant inshore fisheries. 100 “This poses a real threat to by the Minister regarding the and such other matters arising Tel:+353 (0)74 9177500 Fax:+353 (0)74 9177200 fishermen, and bad for lobsters, per cent of the catch is landed the biosecurity of our native matter was flawed. within twenty days. Email: [email protected] Web: www.chd.ie Cavanagh Hooper Dolan Insurances Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland 4 News RESCUE SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 RESCUE News 5

Tributes Paid by Galway Bertie Donohue’s boat Venture The chart area Paddleboarders after Epic Rescue

By Lorna Siggins Fisherman Patrick Oliver with his WO young Galway women son Morgan. (Credit: Joe who were rescued by O’Shaughnessy, Tfishermen after surviving Connacht Tribune) 15 hours at sea on paddleboards have paid tribute to all those who participated in the overnight search to locate them. Cousins Sara Feeney (23) and “But tide and search probability computer Ellen Glynn (17) of Knocknacarra in Galway city have said they technology, and three of the country’s four rescue have “no words” to describe their Galway Flying Club, Aer Arann, Courtney said, paying tribute to the helicopters—the most modern and best equipped gratitude, after they were found by and the Oranmore-Maree coastal enormous rescue effort. fisherman Patrick Oliver and his in the world, armed with heat-seeking cameras— search volunteers. “But tide and search probability 18-year old son, Morgan. Patrick and Morgan Oliver, from computer technology, and three were no match for the sea-faring gut instinct Following a terrifying night a well-known Claddagh maritime of the country’s four rescue on choppy seas with heavy rain, family, had joined the search on helicopters—the most modern and of Patrick Oliver and his son Morgan” thunder and lightning, they managed Thursday morning. They had best equipped in the world, armed to grab hold of several floats noticed the position of the other with heat-seeking cameras—were attached to crab gear owned by Aran vessels, and informed Galway no match for the sea-faring gut fisherman Bertie Donohue some processing business, had intended A major air-sea search had been 1991 against Shamrock Rovers. He RNLI they would head out towards instinct of Patrick Oliver and his two miles south-west of the Aran moving the gear several days before tasked by Valentia Marine Rescue is also the club’s current head of Inis Oírr. son Morgan,” he said. island of Inis Oírr but says that “something stopped Sub-Centre after the alarm was youth development. The Oliver family are very The Olivers had noted the wind It was at that location—close to him”. raised at 10.05pm on August 12th. When the cousins realised the involved in Galway RNLI lifeboat and “headed like a bloodhound an area known as “the Finish” off The two women, who were flown The pair were wearing buoyancy offshore winds were preventing and Galway Sea Scouts. Patrick’s straight to the survivors’ location”, Inis Oírr—that Morgan Oliver (18) from Inis Oírr by Irish Coast Guard aids but not wetsuits, and had them from paddling back to shore nephew, Sean Oliver, was just Courtney said. spotted them around midday on helicopter to University Hospital, no means of communication. The in the air-filled boards, they had 14 years old when he and fellow “The ocean is a cruel place... August 13th onboard his father’s Galway after their rescue, described alert was raised by Sara Feeney’s quickly lashed them together and Galway Sea Scouts pulled a man there was no loss of life in this seven-metre catamaran Johnny Ó. afterwards how helicopters and mum, Helen, who was on the focused on trying to stay parallel to from the river Corrib in October incident, but that doesn’t mean there Mr Donohue, from Cill Éinne vessels were close to them during shoreline at Furbo with her dog and Furbo beach. 2018. aren’t lessons to be learned,” he on Inis Mór, has said they are two the night. noticed they had drifted out. RNLI lifeboats from Aran and The Olivers rooted out jackets, said. “very tough, very brave girls – and They described sighting a The cousins—an NUI Galway Galway, a rotation of Irish Coast towels, whatever they could find to The Irish Coast Guard has said I don’t know how they managed to helicopter heading north of their psychology graduate and a student Guard helicopters from Shannon, wrap the two women up on the deck the search covered a 200 square hold on to my fishing gear in that location towards the Aran islands on at the “Jez” secondary school in Waterford and Sligo, and the Doolin of their catamaran. mile sea area, and said it was using location”. the Thursday morning. Galway—had only planned to stay and Costello Bay Coast Guard units “They couldn’t have been kinder SARMAP – the US software used The two exhausted women were North-easterly winds had carried out a short while. were tasked. to us,” Sara Feeney said. effectively by Valentia Coast Guard battling to try and arrest their drift their paddleboards some 17 nautical Ms Glynn’s father, Johnny, The Civil Defence, local The buoyancy aids helped, in 2011 to track probable location out into the Atlantic when they miles from their last known position is a well-known Galway United fishermen, anglers, leisure craft but staying together and staying of the crew of the yacht Rambler spotted the floats. off Furbo beach diagonally across footballer, who scored the goal that and hundreds of shore searchers with their paddleboards had been which capsized in the Fastnet yacht Mr Donohue, who runs a crab Galway Bay towards Black Head. clinched the FAI Cup for the club in participated, as did pilots with crucial – along with keeping calm, race off West Cork. Patrick Oliver said. The SARMAP search area Bertie Donohue says he is generated two scenarios which “amazed” at the resilience of the were used to co-ordinate all assets, two women. including fishing vessels and “That was one of three sets of commercial craft, it says. Aran fisherman Bertie Donohue pots I laid off “The Finish”, some It is understood that the and the sling the girls held two-miles south-west of Inis Oírr, helicopters and lifeboats were but it was the outer set of gear,” he receiving frequent reports of Images courtesy of Bertie Donohue Higher Diploma in Business explained. “targets of interest”, which they had “If they had missed it, they would to divert to. in AQUABUSINESS be out in the Atlantic,” he said. The Irish Coast Guard says that Mr Donohue said that “what had if the two women were not falling happened to those two girls could under the focused spectrum of the Sikorsky S-92 night sun or FLIR OneOne year year part-time part-time postgraduate postgraduate course happen to any of us”. camera they would be “difficult to atcourse Wexford at WexfordCampus Campusaimed at aimed fisheries, Experienced Galway sailor spot”, particularly as they had no aquacultureat fisheries, or aquaculture seafood processing or seafood Pierce Purcell paid tribute to the wetsuits to provide an extra heat candidatesprocessing via candidates. blended-learning. “phenomenal effort”, and said that sailors would “never complain source. Apply nownow for for September September 2019. 2020. about lobster pots getting in the way “The search was just moving again”. into the south-west of the Inis Oirr Contact Former Irish Coast Guard search sector ...with both aviation and [email protected] and rescue pilot Dave Courtney, surface assets when the fishing [email protected] author of the memoir Nine Lives, vessel Johnny Ó came upon them,” www.itcarlow.ie/LLL says that questions need to be asked it has said. as to why the rescue took so long. “It is highly likely they would “The whole country rejoiced have been detected within the when the two women were found following one to two hours as it was The buoys marking crab pots two Supported by alive after 15 hours at sea,” daylight,” it had said. miles south-west of Inis Oírr 6 News SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 News 7

Supreme Court rules in favour of Gardaí examine allegations of 'misconduct in public fishermen in Porcupine case NEWS in brief office' relating to marine casualty inquiries n July 31st, the Supreme data was examined on a time both. Mac Lochlainn appointed Sinn Court handed down their spent rather than catches logged “The first was whether or Féin’s Fisheries spokesperson ARDAÍ are continuing servants on its board. conducting safety investigations of Irish Coast Guard volunteer eagerly awaited decision basis. The statistician would not the two men, rather than to examine allegations Mr Kingston, whose father and for drawing up reports and Caitríona Lucas almost four years O of “misconduct in public Tim died in the Whiddy island recommendations. ago. pertaining to the methodology then reallocate the catches their owning companies, had Sinn Féin Chief Whip and G adopted by the Sea Fisheries and disregard the logbook sufficient interest to bring the TD for Donegal, Pádraig office” in relation to marine casualty Betelgeuse explosion 41 years It is a non-prosecutorial body Ms Lucas’s death, the first of Protection Authority (SFPA) in completely on the basis of case. The SFPA argues they did Mac Lochlainn was recently investigations, writes Lorna Siggins. ago, said he welcomed the Garda which does not enforce legislation, an Irish Coast Guard volunteer relation to the Porcupine Bank, where vessels were spending not. The Court held that they did appointed Sinn Féin The examination relates to a investigation. and its investigations do not on duty, prompted two state ruling in favour of an application time. have sufficient interest. spokesperson for Fisheries and complaint lodged earlier this year by He said that he had asked the apportion blame or fault. investigations into the incident off by two fishermen to have the “The EU Control Regulation The second issue is whether the Marine. maritime lawyer Michael Kingston. Garda Commissioner last January to The European Commission Kilkee on September 12, 2016. A matter referred to the European mandates that in January or not the matter should be Announcing his appointment, The Garda Press Office initiate an inquiry. initiated its case against Ireland over Health and Safety Authority (HSA) confirmed it is also examining Court of Justice (ECJ). of each year, the competent sent by way of a reference to Sinn Féin President Mary Lou It is understood that the Garda the MCIB in 2018, arguing it was inquiry was forwarded to the DPP. allegations relating to “the investigation is at an early stage, and not independent on the basis that The case was originally taken authority must report the the European Court of Justice McDonald TD said, “Pádraig A separate MCIB report, by fishermen Pat Fitzpatrick and proceeding year’s outtake data to determine how to apply the implementation of maritime safety that no findings of wrongdoing had the responsibilities and activities of published two years after the Michael Flannery, following to the Commission. The SFPA arguments. Mac Lochlainn will be a strong regulation to determine if a criminal yet been made against anyone. both the Department of Transport incident, was critical of the Irish a decision in 2017 by then said that they were entitled to “The Minister and the SPFA voice for fishing and coastal act has occurred where a criminal Mr Kingston’s call for an and the MSO could conflict with the Coast Guard’s safety management Minister for Agriculture, Food report their new ‘methodology’ argued that no reference was communities. He has fought investigation should be undertaken”. inquiry was supported by investigative task. system, and outlined a number of and the Marine, Michael Creed because they had to report required as the interpretation for them with passion and Mr Kingston had submitted a Independent TD Mattie McGrath In its defence, Ireland argued that systems and equipment failures in to close an area of the Porcupine data. Michael O’Mahony, on of the law was so obvious as to determination for the two dossier to the Garda Commissioner and Anne Marie O’Brien, whose the MCIB reports are independent. relation to the Kilkee unit. Bank on advice from the SFPA Affidavit, stated that he could leave no scope for any doubt decades that he has served as a earlier this year, calling for an brother John O’Brien and his friend The ECJ judgment issued The DPP recently informed who argued that based on their not have a ‘blind reliance on as to its meaning i.e. an Irish public representative.” investigation. Patrick Esmonde drowned in 2010 on July 9th this year found Bernard Lucas, her husband, that ‘time spent’ methodology more logbook data’. Court could figure out what Over the past years, she said, The Garda Commissioner’s off Helvick Head, Co Waterford. that Ireland is “not fulfilling its no criminal charges would be prawns had been caught in FU16 “The fishers had argued the EU law means. The SFPA Mac Lochlainn has “championed office informed Mr Kingston in late Barrister and maritime lawyer obligations under Article 8(1) of brought arising from the HSA than recorded in the logbooks of that this was a twisting of the argued the meaning of ‘data’ the needs of fishers” and worked July that his correspondence had Ciarán McCarthy, who was a Social Directive 2009/18” governing the inquiry. fishermen and women. meaning of the regulation and and ‘information’ is clear and “in partnership with fishing been seen by Commissioner Drew Democrat candidate for Cork North- investigation of accidents in the Gardaí have also confirmed that In the autumn of 2018, the that the data which the Control obvious. representative organisations Harris, and he had directed that West in the recent election, also maritime transport sector”. the DPP has directed no criminal fishermen lost a High Court Regulation at articles 33(2)(a) “The Court clearly held that all along the coast in holding the matter be investigated by the welcomed the move. It notes the five person MCIB prosecutions will arise from their action challenging the SFPA’s and 34(4) is referring to is only this argument was not correct the Minister for the Marine and Garda National Bureau of Criminal “The recent ECJ ruling on the board includes the Department of investigation into the Irish Coast adopted methodology. Last the logbook data. That there was and it was not clear and obvious. Department officials to account Investigation. MCIB is deeply embarrassing to the Transport secretary-general, or his or Guard Rescue 116 helicopter crash. summer, however, they were an arsenal of enforcement tools The approach taken by the SFPA on policy and legislation.” The development came several State, and its judgment speaks for her deputy, and the Marine Survey Two pilots, Dara Fitzpatrick and granted leave to appeal the and procedures available to the has not been examined by the weeks after the European Court of itself in that we are in breach of our Office (MSO) chief surveyor. Mark Duffy, and winch crew Paul judgement in the Supreme SFPA and this approach was in ECJ before. The Court held Justice (ECJ) ruled that Ireland’s obligations,” Mr McCarthy said. Separately, the Director of Public Ormsby and Ciarán Smith died in Court. breach of EU Law.” ‘that this is a new question of Marine Casualty Investigation The MCIB is responsible under Prosecutions (DPP) has decided the crash off the north Mayo coast Following July’s Supreme On the ruling in favour of interpretation of general interest Illegal Lobsters Seized in Mayo Board (MCIB) was not independent, the Merchant Shipping Act and the that no criminal charges should in March 2017. An HSA inquiry is court judgement, solicitor the fishermen, he said, “While for the uniform application of due to the presence of two civil Merchant Shipping Regulations for be brought in relation to the death still ongoing. Dermot Conway, representing initially unsuccessful in the EU law.’” the fishermen, explained, “The High Court, an Appeal was In other words, said Mr In late July, following an earlier SFPA wanted to disregard EU taken to the Supreme Court. Conway, “What the Court is seizure in the South East, the Fishing Logbook data and Two issues came before the saying is that in order to have SFPA seized 28 lobsters which instead deploy a statistician, Court and the fishermen, the law apply the same in every had been caught illegally off the Dr Coughlan of the SFPA to Patrick Fitzpatrick and Michael Member State this referral to the Mayo coast with the intention of analyse the VMS data. The Flannery were successful on ECJ is required.” selling them directly to the public and restaurants. Commercial lobster fishing is only permitted by licensed fishermen under a range of Flagships: A response to Quoque Latrones conservation measures. Those fishing recreationally without Quoque Latrones, UK had lost sovereignty to option for Government. In fact, a fishing licence can legally Europe on entering the EU and, the Court ordered the UK to only fish for lobster and crab The answer to your specifically, the CFP; and that restitute quota to the flagships from May 1st to September conundrum (August Issue, flagships had to be allowed as if their tie-up losses had not 30th every year, fishing up to The Skipper) lies in the ECJ onto the UK fishing register happened. a maximum of six pots. They case Regina vs Jaderow/ without let or hindrance and Flagships had, prior to quota, are permitted to retain up to Hooktone in the European be allowed to fish equitably as been a feature of the UK five crabs and one lobster daily, Court when Margaret Thatcher part of the European project. As register and, as such, had which cannot be offered for sale. discovered that, indeed, the such, quota denial was not an built an entitlement to quota which was enhanced (and also diminished) through trade €5m funding secured by Bio- Supporting (sale). POs per se did not Marine Ingredients Ireland primarily sell the quota, this was more a vessel to Bio-Marine Ingredients Ireland, vessel transaction and POs an Irish company that extracts proteins, oils and calcium from the industry facilitated this through their quota management function fish for use in food ingredients Industrial & Marine Engines which is also bound by legal and as animal feed, has raised €5 million from small investors. consequence and EU rules. Secured through the State- Flagships are a direct function backed Employment and Marine Engines 400hp to 1000hp of the European concept of EU Investment Incentive Scheme waters, EU fleet and EU rule. (EIIS), it brings funding by the Is it any wonder the UK wants company to date to €30 million. WESTWARD SCANIA out and some semblance of Led by Jason Whooley, former control repatriated in securing chief executive with BIM, the Tel +353 71 9634532 Mob +353 86 6082909 our own waters and access to marine ingredients company them? is a joint venture between e-mail [email protected] the Killybegs Fishermen’s Yours etc, Organisation and Norwegian www.bim.ie P Veritas (Dick James) company Biomarine Science Technology,

9431 BIM smokehouse Irish skipper half page ad.indd 1 23/06/2020 16:47 8 News SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 IRISH SKIPPER EXPO News 9

Marliona incident a ‘dangerous Valentia fisherman Padraigh Ring, crew on the Cisemair, with an oilfish. A species of snake disregard for Irish sovereignty’ mackerel, this fish should not be eaten or sold. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Flannery) inn Féin’s spokesperson on Foreign “The disregard for Irish sovereignty Affairs and Defence, John Brady has is arrogance of the highest order. But, expressed his anger at the revelation alongside this we have the endangerment Sthat a Killybegs-registered trawler, of Irish fishing vessels and their crews by a IRELAND’S the Marliona, was confronted by a British British submarine. Navy vessel and ordered away from a “I thought that we had left this carry-on fishing area off the Irish coast. behind with the Cold War. FLAGSHIP FISHERIES SHOW An Air Corps maritime patrol aircraft “For decades, British submarines have was dispatched and two Irish naval ships infringed on Irish sovereign waters, leading placed on standby after the skipper of the to tragedy and loss of life when submarines fishing vessel reported that a UK frigate had have got caught up in fishing nets and ordered him to leave the area where he was pulled trawlers under. fishing 60 miles off the Donegal coast. “It is staggering and unacceptable that It is understood that HMS Lancaster this flagrant disregard for the safety of Irish hailed the Killybegs-based fishing vessel fishing crews is continuing. This cannot be on the morning of July 21st, informing allowed to stand. the skipper they were commencing a joint “I will ensure that this incident will not operation with a submarine which would be allowed to be swept under the carpet. We RESCHEDULED continue over the next three days. need answers as to why this has been The Department of Foreign Affairs has allowed to happen. since launched an investigation following “I understand that the Department the confrontation. of Foreign Affairs has launched an SHOW DATES With respect the incident, the Wicklow investigation into the incident, and I will TD accused the British Navy of “arrogance be in contact with the Minister to ensure of the highest order” and of “once again that the government’s response reflects the endangering Irish fishing vessels.” seriousness of the matter. Speaking on July 26th, Teachta Brady “I also want to commend the response of AR 2021 said: “On one level, we have the outrageous the Irish Navy, which ordered Irish vessels 12-13 M scenario of a foreign power ordering an to the area to ensure the safety of the fishing Irish vessel out of Irish waters. On the vessel in question. -4 other, we have a situation where a British “This incident underlines the need to end -6 SAT 10 warship was engaged in a joint operation the running down of the country’s defence FRI 10 with a British submarine. forces and naval service by government.” Albino monkfish caught just south of the Kinsale gas rigs by the beamer Mary Kate. (Photo courtesy of Eamonn Sinnot) Marliona UL SPORT, LIMERICK

High Court Quashes Permission for Razor Fishery in Waterford Estuary ith implications for granted for the fishery, according environmental grounds. the area has been closed, much a small fishery and a to the Court, was given without Coastwatch argued that the to the dismay of local razor Wnumber of livelihoods, appropriate environmental decision to allow the fishery fishermen who have said that in July the High Court ruled in assessment. should not have been granted far from insufficient assessment, favour of the environmental group The case, taken against the SFPA until an appropriate assessment or they had put a huge amount of The For more information on Coastwatch in a case taken by the and Department of Agriculture, screening of the estuary had been work over four years into making NGO conerning the opening of a Food and the Marine, was brought conducted in accordance with the sure the fishery was opened in Irish Skipper Expo 2021 razor fishery in Waterford Estuary. on the back of an action taken by EU Habitats Directive. Among accordance with all requirements, Skipper please contact The ruling, issued by the Court the NGO last autumn, when they the orders being sought was the and had also brought a on July13th, quashes permission applied for and secured permission quashing of the decision to open management plan for the fishery Show Sponsors to dredge for razors in the estuary, to challenge the decision to the area. to the South East Regional Inshore Sharon Boyle on the basis that the permission open the fishery by the SFPA on Since then, the razor fishery in Fisheries Forum. Commercial Fishing Manager Email: [email protected] of 2020, and to carry out the necessary actions Additionally, owners/operators should ensure Check Your EPIRB! described within. that EPIRBs are correctly registered with up The Department of Transport, Tourism and to date contact information, EPIRB and vessel Tel: 00353 (0)74 95 48037 cean Signal has issued an important Sport also wishes to remind the owners/operators details. Mobile: 00353 (0)86 8401250 service letter relating to Ocean Signal of all EPIRB types of the importance of carrying The Department requests that if you encounter OSafe Sea E100 and E100G EPIRBs. out regular beacon tests and visual inspections. any issues relating to EPIRBs, or have any related Owners of Ocean Signal EPIRBs are requested These checks should be carried out on a queries, please contact [email protected]. Web: www.theskipper.ie to review the information contained in this service monthly basis, in line with specific manufacturer Marine Notice 29 can be found at: https://bit. IRISH SKIPPER EXPO 2021 letter which can be found in Marine Notice 29 guidelines. ly/2QqgHFm 10 News AROUND THE COAST SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 AROUND THE COAST News 11

News Roundup from Killybegs reported by John Cunningham Cool Response from Inshore Clogherhead Fishermen’s Reps to FLAG Grants three days she was loaded patchy this season, with no Golf Outing with frozen blue whiting from big concentration of fish in Activity picking up liciting a cool response queried by The Skipper on the With most of the fleet in and tied up on account of Storm the local factories, before the area. It was a difficult from Ireland’s inshore availability of EMFF funds for Ellen, Clogherhead Fishermen’s Association enjoyed their setting sail again on the 7th of season for the Irish fleet who hilst June and July and Progress from Killybegs fishing community, COVID supports for the Irish annual golf outing on August 21. had been relatively are fishing on the west coast August for Lagos, Nigeria. were fishing north of the E at the end of July former fleet, the Department stated Wquiet in the port while the Westbound is fishing Spanish coast in the last days Minister for Agriculture, Food that it expected that the €239 of Killybegs, August has in Donegal Bay. Also paying a Albacore Tuna of July. They ended up 80 and the Marine, Dara Calleary million fund (total) would be been more active. As the sun visit to the port are east coast miles west of Castletownbere T.D., announced the award fully invested by the end of shines on the pier, French and boats from Clogherhead who Four Killybegs trawlers— by the end of the second week of €1.2 million in grants to 93 the programme period. Spanish boats continue to land are fishing Rockall and the Father McKee, Brendelen, of August. local community groups and In other words, the funds their whitefish catches to the west coast. Atlantic Dawn and Glór na Meanwhile, north of the micro-enterprises by six of the simply weren’t there. already waiting containers and The first week of August dTonn—are still participating Spanish coast reports indicate seven Fisheries Local Action All funds, the Department lorries ready to be transported saw the arrival of the Curacao in the albacore fishery. one pair of boats had 50 ton in Groups (FLAG) established said, had been allocated off to France and Spain. registered Breiz Klipper, a 110 Reports indicate the one night, while another had under Ireland’s European to various funding areas. Meanwhile, the Achieve metre reefer ship. For over albacore tuna has been very 40 tons. Maritime and Fisheries Fund Approved by a Monitoring (EMFF) Programme. Committee, any changes Announcing the grants, to those, they said, would The full squad that played in Ardee Golf Club. (Photos courtesy of Patrick Smith) which are co-funded by require the agreement of that Full pier in Clogherhead. (Credit: Cathal Ó hUallacháin) the Government and the committee, before adding that European Union, Minister the rate of funds committed Calleary said the FLAG through grant offers was Scheme “is unique in high, and with the schemes having representatives still open for applications, of our traditional fishing continued to increase! communities make the According to Mr Patrick funding award decisions so Murphy of the Irish South that vital local funding gets and West Fish Producers’ to the many community Organisation (ISWFPO) development groups and the tie-up scheme that was Pacelli returning to Killybegs with blue whiting. (Credit: John Cunningham) events in our fishing eventually put in place for communities, together with the Irish fleet had up until important development the end of July cost less that funding to micro enterprises €200, 000 in terms of actual involved in fisheries and payments (with many still aquaculture, marine tourism pending?) to individual vessel and marine leisure activities.” owners. Engine reliability Pacelli pumping blue whiting. (Credit: John Cunningham) “The one thing that unites Little surprise then, in this all these projects is their context, that funding for contribution to the economic painters, decorators, yoga Bluefin Tuna and social development centres, lodges and aquaparks of traditional fishing has failed to garner much he bluefin tuna kicked two, the weights of these fish communities, which is what excitement Ireland’s fishing off with screaming reels ranging from 250 -700lbs. the FLAG scheme is all about,” community… Avoid dirty Bacteria growth Save your injectors setting new boat and All fish were tagged and he said, adding that since the The geographical spread of diesel tanks - risk of blockage T country records. On his first day, released, as per Ireland’s Tuna scheme has been in operation the grant awards announced of in-line filters Michael Callaghan and crew of CHART (CatcH And Release “it has gone from strength to were as follows: the Leah C caught the first bluefin Tagging) Programme, under strength.” The winning team from this year’s outing. L-R: Terry Power (Supreme II), of the season. Fish number two which several angling charter However, pointing to the Darren O’Brien (Stella Nova), and Philip McEvoy (Devotion). and three followed minutes later, vessel skippers around the coast breakdown of the individual CJC® Oil Filters installed on-board caught with double hook by Deep are authorised to operate a “FIONA K III on: Blue, skippered by Adrian Molloy. scientific fishery, in which anglers grants awarded “at a time of unprecedented crisis for the • Diesel Fuel Total catch of the day was seven – catch, tag and release bluefin Deep Blue hooking five,Leah C tuna. fishing industry for which • Engine Lube Oil it is getting very little or no • Hydraulic Systems meaningful support”, inshore representatives NIFA and NIFO were quick to question the direction in which funding was being funnelled when it appears there is none there to help fishermen and women directly. • Specialising in the marine industry Funded from a €12 million • Ultra High Pressure water blasting pot, allocated under Ireland’s • No blast media used 2014-2020 EMFF Operational A breakdown of the • Environmentally friendly Let us help you with Programme’s Fisheries Local individual grant awards • No mess of sand or grit to clean up your oil related issues Area Development Scheme, can be found at https://bit. • Rust and Paint removal earlier this year, during the ly/2FOOuWN CONTACT • Surface Preparation C.C.JENSEN Ireland Jan Foged depths of the coronavirus Details of the FLAG scheme 086 82 71 508 - www.ccjensen.ie - [email protected] crisis and with much of the and how to apply can be found 29A Ferryhill Road, Newry, Newry BT35 8RT | Email: [email protected] Two of the boats participating in the bluefin scientific fishery, Fiona Tee and Tel: (Irl) +353 (0)800 814254 | (UK) +44 (0)7845644178 Meridan. (Credit: John Cunningham) inshore fleet tied up, when at www.bim.ie/schemes/ 12 News AQUACULTURE SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 MARKETS AND LANDINGS News 13

Inventor creates revolutionary way to Volume of Landings by Irish Vessels down 8.9% in 2019 farm oysters Celtic Sea accounts for 28% of the catch igures for 2019 show that and with mackerel at €66.7 Polish man living landings by Irish fishing million and Norway lobster in Dungarvan, Co Fvessels decreased by 8.9 at €51.1 million this pattern Waterford has quite per cent from 213,897 tonnes continued in 2019. A in 2018 to 194,956 tonnes last In terms of median prices literally turned oyster farming year. Landings by Irish vessels per tonne for landings by Irish on its head, by inventing a in Ireland fell by 5.7 per cent or vessels in Ireland, European revolutionary device that allows 10,453 tonnes, while landings lobster, black sole and turbot for three times more oysters by Irish vessels in foreign ports obtained the highest prices. within the same area of seabed. dropped by 28.7 per cent or The median price per tonne Having worked as an oyster 8,487 tonnes. Last year also saw of lobster, for example, was farmer in Dungarvan Bay for landings by foreign vessels in €18,000. In contrast, species over eight years, Grzegorz Ireland drop, falling by 22 per landed with much higher Skawiński is keenly aware cent or 29,091 tonnes. tonnages, like mackerel, that for oyster farmers space Based on data from Ireland’s obtained lower prices. limitations are a constraint – Sea Fisheries Protection According to the figures, there’s more demand for Irish Authority (SFPA), the figures 63.1 per cent or 123,067 tonnes Last year, 63.1% of all landings by Irish vessels were oysters than individual farmers published in a CSO statistical of all landings by Irish vessels landed into Killybegs. (Photo credit: Mark A. Neeson) can supply on account of this release in late July indicate were landed into Killybegs. For issue, he reckons. that over the period 2010-2019 landings by foreign vessels, Source: CSO Thinking through this landings by Irish vessels peaked Killybegs (74,693 tonnes) and problem, the idea for his new in 2012 when 249,205 tonnes Castletownbere (23,329 tonnes) device began to formulate, were landed. The highest level were the ports with the highest and he developed the product, of landings by Irish vessels tonnages. called the Crab Farmer, which in foreign ports during the The Celtic Sea accounted uniquely has a rotating cage same period was in 2010 when for 28% (48,620 tonnes) of the system, over two years. 153,440 tonnes—73,535 tonnes catches by Irish vessels that were of which was boarfish—were landed in Ireland in 2019. 22.6% Prototyped at sea, rather landed. or 39,295 tonnes were caught than the traditional farming of Mackerel (45,986 tonnes), South-West of Ireland, 12.9% or side by side on trestles, with blue whiting (33,548 tonnes) and 22,431 tonnes West of Ireland. Grzegorz Skawiński, inventor, with oyster device the Crab Farmer oyster bags horse mackerel (27,898 tonnes) The busiest months for are placed one above the other, were the top species landed last landings by Irish vessels were saving space on the seabed and year. In terms of value, over the January to April and October increasing production. When possible. farming, have environmental Having started on the 2010-2019 time period mackerel to December, with 64% of last the device rotates, it allows the On top of this, because of benefits in terms of less plastic, project in 2017 and creating and Norway lobster have year’s catch landed by Irish oysters to move freely, aiding the rotating system, back pain, while also offering rewards in the device—which is consistently been the two species vessels in the January to April growth. common in the industry, is terms of boosting productivity currently patented in Ireland, with the highest value landings, period. While normally each oyster relieved. And given the rubber and profits. along with patents expected bag is turned by hand – five in bands that hold the bags in “When you work with in the UK and France—for a row on a trestle, Grzegorz’s place on a trestle are no longer oysters, you understand testing and research purposes, system allows 16 to be turned required, Grzegorz’s invention intimately how farming Grzegorz is now keen to move in one rotation. also has benefits in terms of methods work, and importantly on with the next phase of the COVID-19: August Markets Remain Volatile The system, which currently the environment, working to for me, how they can be business – either to sell the remains in prototype stage, minimise plastic pollution. improved,” he says. “The idea licensed patent, or work with arkets for Irish by France, Spain and the haddock sales grew by 28.8 per Chinese market now effectively alongside producing a high- On account of his own of rotation was born while a manufacturer to market the seafood this month UK, also remain volatile cent, while fresh haddock sales closed once more on account quality oyster in terms of experience as a farmer, the working on the project. The product globally. Mremain volatile with demand weak in Spain declined by 9.3 per cent. of a skittishness around shape and meat, means farming inventor saw the potential of main goal of the project was For further information on account of the global for species such as megs and Bucking the trend, demand imported seafood and low in deeper waters that were a new product that would help to place as many oysters as visit: https://newoysterfarm. pandemic, according to Bord monk due to the collapse of the for Irish organic salmon has prices rendering shipping costs previously inaccessible is ease some of the physicality of possible on the seabed surface.” com/ Bia’s COVID-19: Impact on tourism market. remained strong throughout unviable. Trade Report, published August Similar trends are evident the year across key markets in Compounding the challenges 14th. across other markets in Europe, with exporters now facing those targeting shellfish, Though demand for Irish Europe, while at home sales planning for the busy traditional demand in Europe for high- pelagics in China has picked up, through independent outlets end of year sales. value species such as shrimp, ADVERTISING RATES demand for high specification are strong. With limited menus The situation for the oyster velvet crab and lobster has also GROW YOUR BRAND mackerel destined for Japan and some sectors still closed sector— export figures for remained weak. Demand from is still relatively weak due to due to COVID restrictions, which for the first half of the Europe for mussels remains SIZE MONO COLOUR people still working from home foodservice, however, is still year indicate volumes are down sluggish. WITH THE SKIPPER & and demand for the traditional poor. 56 per cent on the same period With the value of sales down SKIPPER EXPOS Full Page €1,000 €1,200 mackerel based lunchbox In the 16 weeks ending June last year—remains challenging, around 50 per cent to Italy, consequently low. 14th 2020, data from Kantar with poor demand from France our biggest market, European • Average Monthly Circulation: 4.5k 1/2 Page €600 €725 In Europe, with competition has shown that fresh prepacked and access to the Chinese demand for Irish prawns also • Average Monthly Readers: 11.5k 1/4 Page €400 €500 also from cheaper supply fish mix, prawns, haddock market proving to be an issue on remains weak. Export values • Average Monthly Website Visitors: 26k 1/8 Page €200 €250 sources from the Faroes and and salmon were the best account of logistics and nervous to the UK are also down 37 per • Social Media Followers: 78k • Newsletter Subscriptions: 7k 65x95mm €95 €120 Norway, many customers are performing species during this consumer sentiment. cent on last year for the period still processing from stock period. A report published by Bord January to May 2020. Figures Contact Sharon purchased earlier in the year so Total haddock sales grew Bia on August 8, and reports for May compared to April are, +353 (0)86 8401250 new orders are slow to come by 2.7 per cent due to a slight from around the coast indicate however, more encouraging on +353 (0)74 9548037 through. increase in shopper numbers things remain difficult also the prawn front with exports to www.theskipper.ie European markets for as well as consumers buying for crab fishermen, with very Italy and Spain showing some, [email protected] whitefish, which are dominated more volume per trip. Frozen low prices being paid and the if not much, movement. 14 News SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 INTERNATIONAL News 15

New Dates for Scottish Skipper Expo set for 2021 ORKNEY NEWS By Craig Taylor ollowing consultation with of the Scottish Fishermen’s exhibitors and visitors, Federation, said: “It is obviously 50 years RNLI service FMara Media, the organiser disappointing that the Scottish Orkney Seafarers’ of Scottish Skipper Expo 2020 Skipper Expo has had to be one could ever fill their shoes and we (13 and 14 November) has further postponed, but in the never tried to fill their shoes. That was Centre closes for the decided not to stage the event circumstances, it was the not possible. We continued what they’d this year due to the COVID-19 responsible thing to do. We very been doing.” last time pandemic, and has rolled the much look forward to welcoming Shortly afterwards, a crew member show forward to now take place exhibitors and visitors to the stood down and John became the CRAIG TAYLOR BY IMAGES in Aberdeen on 14 and 15 May Aberdeen show in 2021 and to a emergency mechanic, the beginning 2021. brighter future for the industry.” of a natural progression which was to Hugh Bonner, managing Scottish Skipper Expo will be continue for his 39 years as an active director of Mara Media, held on 14 and 15 May 2021. crew member. said, “We are tremendously We will continue to keep in He took over from Jimmy Swanson disappointed to make this touch with the industry and be as assistant mechanic and eventually decision, but we are confident supportive in any way we can. became the mechanic, keeping pace it is the right move, given the For updates please visit with the increasing amounts of ongoing uncertainty surrounding www.theskipper.ie technology in the newer boats. The Eamonn and Teresa McHugh celebrate with Bert Leslie, Seaquest Systems, John Budge recently retired as Longhope COVID-19. Kent Damgaard and Knud Karstensen from Karstensens Shipyard, at the Lifeboat operations manager. current Tamar class boat “is like a “Following consultation with signing for the new Antarctic. spaceship” in comparison to the earlier the industry, our overwhelming craft, John says. feeling was it would not have wo milestones were reached for John remembers with satisfaction Josie Stanger and Roy Norquoy outside the now closed been possible to deliver the high- Longhope Lifeboat operations the many good outcomes from shouts Orkney Seafarers’ Centre. manager John Budge recently, his with the lifeboat. “50 years has gone quality show that the commercial T 70th birthday, and with it, his retirement past very quickly. I’ve enjoyed what I fishing sector expects. The from the RNLI after 50 years’ service. did with the crew: the camaraderie and HE ORKNEY Seafarers’ Centre and charity health and safety of exhibitors, There was a presentation on Saturday, the fellowship and the friends that have shop has closed its doors for the last time – a visitors and the wider public was August 15, at the Stromabank Hotel been made with other stations. And to Tsad occasion for those volunteers involved, also a pivotal factor in the final where John was having a birthday meal be able to put your hand out and pull who wish to thank everyone who have supported them decision. with his family. somebody up when they are in grave since being established. “We are now looking forward Iain Cromarty, chairman of RNLI danger. Serving on the lifeboat gave us Roy Norquoy and Josie Stanger have been at the to next year’s event which will Longhope spoke about John’s long that chance and we were all honoured to helm of the centre, which was set-up almost five years return stronger to celebrate its career with the lifeboat, and he was be able to do that.” ago to extend the hand of friendship and support to 10th-anniversary show, at the joined by the coxswain and crew for John has been at the heart of the visiting seafarers, as well as folk closer to home. new venue of the P & J Live a presentation of cards, whisky and work of the RNLI in Longhope, not The charity has been established in its rented Castle Street, Kirkwall, premises, since last February, having arena in Aberdeen.” Over 230 companies exhibited at the last show. flowers for his partner, Florence. just at the station, but in the fundraising Elspeth Macdonald, CEO With social distancing in place, it was and social occasions too, often sharing moved from Junction Road, where it had temporary a relatively quiet affair with the promise his tales of service with the lifeboat premises previous to that. of some more Hoy and Walls hospitality and entertaining with his songs and The centre and staff of volunteers provided a to come when circumstances allow. accordion playing. friendly welcome and support to seafarers from Skipper John’s dedicated service to Longhope And whilst he steps down officially, around the world, many of whom were crew off the PRESENTSThe Lifeboat began in January 1970, when John continues to support the life-saving large number of cruise ships which visited Orkney he volunteered as a reserve crew work of the RNLI. pre-COVID. member. For those volunteering now he says, Working in conjunction with the charity The Sailors He recalled: “In Longhope, every boy “It’s a big commitment, but it’s so Society, volunteers also carried out welfare visits to was interested in what the Lifeboat was rewarding. I’m very proud to think that ships, hearing any concerns or issues, and giving out doing. It was a sort of central figure in we have always been able to find a crew Bibles if spiritual support was required. the community… and still is.” for the boat.” Mr Norquoy and Mrs Stanger said a number of John became part of the new crew The volunteer crew and the whole factors had led to the closure of the centre, which at Longhope after the disaster of 1969 team at Longhope Lifeboat, the Lifeboat had only just opened for the cruise ship season back and has served at both Brims (now the Guild, friends and supporters say that in March, before quickly being closed again when Longhope Lifeboat Museum) and at they would like to extend a heartfelt coronavirus lockdown restrictions were imposed. P&J LIVE, ABERDEEN Longhope Pier. thanks for John’s lasting and dedicated This includes the fact that the cruise ships are no “We were compared to the men that service and wish him a long, healthy longer calling, and that many of their volunteers are OPENING TIMES had gone before… It was felt that no and happy retirement. vulnerable, with some shielding. They themselves also work full time, and there are plans for the building | Fri 10-6 RESCHEDULED itself to be redeveloped, they understand. Sat 10-4 Looking back they said that the centre and shop, COVID OUTBREAK ON TRAWLER which was very much supported by the Orkney SHOW DATES community, could be a busy place, with passengers and crew supporting the shop, and crew using the COVID-19 outbreak saw the In relation to the outbreak, Elspeth centre. Many crew were given phone cards and used Orkney trawler Aalskere return Macdonald, chief executive of the the internet to enable them to contact home, as they 14-15 MAY 2021 Ato Kirkwall to tie-up. Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, said: are away from home for months or even years. Others By August 17, NHS Orkney said that “The whitefish fleet has been operating were given items of clothing, including for their nine positive COVID-19 cases were throughout the COVID outbreak as children, as well as small toys and knitted hats, and for linked to the fishing vessel cluster in a key part of the food supply chain, that act of kindness, they were so grateful. WWW.THESKIPPER.IE Orkney. continuing to supply quality Scottish As for what the future holds for such a facility, that Email: [email protected] NHS Orkney Director of Public fish to markets at home and abroad. is unknown at present, but if and when cruise ships M: 00353 (0)86 8401250 T: 00353 (0)74 9548037 Health Louise Wilson later confirmed in “In the recent cases linked to a fishing do return to Orkney, Mr Norquoy and Mrs Stanger an Incident Management Team meeting vessel, prompt action was taken by the say that perhaps some sort of presence could be re- IPPE SKIPP SKIPP K R H ER H E S E S S R The I E I X E established to support those seafarers who are so far H T L X that contact tracing in Orkney had been vessel operators to minimise any further X

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S completed and that all those at risk had risks to public health, including liaison from home, but probably not on the same scale as they maramedia Skipper been spoken to. with the relevant authorities.” have had up until now. 16 News REGIONAL SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 REGIONAL News 17

Brown crab legislation NORTHERN IRELAND NEWS By Dick James NEWS n the 31st July, the that there was a broad support and positions of lost opportunities. Department of Agriculture, for increase of minimum size, of A ban on soft crab landing was not in brief Environment and Rural prohibition of taking berried crab, considered in the last consultation HARBOUR AUTHORITY O SEAFLAG FUND HARBOUR Affairs announced they had made and prohibition of the practice of after featuring in the 2011 report. two Statutory Rules in respect of declawing brown crab. In general, the legislation has ENVIRONMENT OFFICER NEW APPOINTMENTS edible crabs, laid at the Assembly After a period of inaction due industry support but some opinion The fisheries community n on the 29th July and due into force to the Northern Ireland Assembly has it that the opportunity was lost The Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour on the 22nd August 2020. being in lockdown, the new for more far reaching changes, and funding agency SEAFLAG Authority (NIFHA) have advertised five Board This may appear rapid but, Minister Poots announced that that the new minimum size merely has announced funding to vacancies and invited applications to fill them. in fact, the process started in action involving legislation would raised the level of minimum the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority for a At present, the NIFHA board consists of six 2011 when a report by Poseidon be enacted as a priority. The size to that of our neighbours in members so this will be a significant change project officer to improve Consultants commissioned Statutory Rules announced an Ireland and the rest of the UK. waste management and at Board level. Two Directors will continue in by the Northern Ireland Fish increase in minimum size from Due to COVID-19 impact, the post, Ms Kate Burns, a fish farmer from Rathlin environmental concerns within Producers Organisation first laid 130 to 140mm and a prohibition level of brown crab fishing has the harbours of Ardglass, Island and Mr Davy Hill, once a fisherman out the options for management on the landing of berried crab, now reduced from previously from Kilkeel but now with general interests in Kilkeel and Portavogie. of this fishery. Following which was broadly in line with extreme levels and this will also The new appointee will be the Kilkeel fishing sector. initial consultation, the process the industry’s support. Declawing assist population recovery. This Leaving the Board as Chairman is Mr involved in litter management resurfaced on the 1st May 2019 was not seen as an option due legislation applies to UK-registered and beach cleans, as well Terry Jarvis, who with 19 years behind him with a further consultation on to conflicting EU legislation, vessels only as the European as fishing gear disposal and as first Board member and then Chairman ten options for action, with a and limitations on pot limits and Commission was not consulted introducing environmental best has considerable background within the synopsis of response following other effort restrictions were before the action, although it will practice within the harbours organisation. George McIlroy, Martin later which conveyed opinion confounded by a variety of options apply to all vessels post-Brexit. and harbour users. McDonald and Helen Henderson will be retiring as Board members, and Ian Morris, previously a Board member died in post HOME AND DRY during the latest post so is also being replaced. Applications are invited before 14th August and Further COVID grant compensation A new safety initiative has successful applicants in post for 1st January been launched for fishermen 2021, with existing Directors appointments ord is doing the is proposed to be flexible, in for prawns at present and that throughout the UK based on expiring on 30th July and the Chairman on 25th rounds (with written that boats may select whether to anticipated for the September- the slogan ‘Home and Dry.’ September. confirmation) that apply for the entire four-month December period is not good Within the County Down fishing W harbours, giant plastic posters Currently, the Harbour Authority is subject another round of COVID-19 period (Sept-Dec) or to apply also, though markets are notably to independent review over the course of travel grant support is being proposed for any combination of months unpredictable especially for the have been erected promoting in strategy for the future. It is understood that for the Northern Ireland fleet. within that period. larger variety. For potters the the message, but failing to part one of the study is complete and part two Based on the premise that 50 per cent is the reduction situation is reversed in that late clarify if the ‘DRY’ refers to the is in preparation. The content of the first part of effort and landings need to be sought but based on what norm is Autumn/early Winter can be internal or external state of the the report is awaiting ministerial sign off before halved over the last 4 months not decided. Should the scheme be good for fishing, and the markets Intended message recipients. release. The content of this report will form one of the year, the Department is oversubscribed then competitive generally get a Christmas boost. of the more significant issues for the new Board considering a voluntary/selective bidding for acceptance will be What happens to crew, RED DIESEL DENIED to consider. scheme to affect this. applied – but again on what basis ancillary and support services Taking the trawl and potting is not decided. is unclear, and the downline At the last UK budget, fleets as both needing this Obviously, there will be activities and supports similarly Treasury announced that action, it is proposed that each issues of detail which will impacted but to what extent St JOHN’S LIGHTHOUSE Herons using Orla S as a perch while keeping the use of red diesel which watch at Ardglass. (Credit: Chris Feenan) vessel shall be struck with an make acceptance of the scheme unknown. At least sales has duty concession was BEAM (REPRISE) individual baseline from which desirable or otherwise for dockets are not an issue, but if going to be relisted as far as a compensation level will be set individuals. There is thought competitive and baseline issues concessionary use applied. n The issue of the future aspect of the light based on 50 per cent of a vessel’s that the prawners would find come into play then that and tax Agriculture was one of the based on St John’s Point in County Down has baseline. The baseline will be this attractive as the period in returns may conflict. industries exempted and it resurfaced (yet again). Initially, the proposal The Fishery set based on a totalling of the consideration is out of season Interestingly, the competitive was assumed that fisheries was to replace the light mechanism within past 3 years vessel grossings and earnings are typically very promise/threat of the process would continue to fit within the tower from a revolving beam based on a then dividing by 72 to derive low at this time, and travel to could prove divisive, and this distinction. That, it now mercury bath and conventional lights to a fixed is the time of plenty as far as the mainland is limited though improving. a monthly average. The trawl more distant grounds than the it would take a judgement transpires, is not the case and , from April 2020 fishing vessels LED light system. A campaign to retain the Irish Sea prawn fishery goes. Boats Scallops and queen scallops seem rare and potting fleets will then be Irish Sea is risky in terms of exceeding that of Solomon to revolving beam was launched by local residents are largely based in the western Irish locally with some diverted effort to the north treated separately. The scheme cost and earnings. The market resolve that amicably. will have to replace the use T of red diesel with white, and with the slogan “retain the beam” and inference Sea with fleets from both North and South in Scottish waters, but a generally slack that the light would be lost. More recently, getting stuck into their own respective pitches market with supplies from elsewhere being the consequential significant Irish Lights revised their proposals to retain the and fishing a bulk of small, largely tailing sufficient to sate it. increase in duty costs with beam based on a mechanical rotation device, prawns, the only constraints being crew Inshore, the potters are starting to see the added 20 per cent Value but then the concern was to retain the liquid fatigue, mechanical breakdown, tides and things picking up, and although the market is Added Tax (VAT) increased as not brilliant it has picked up from previously a consequence. mercury bath which it was stated was a health occasional weather eruptions. Although the duty and VAT and safety problem. There is a fishing to the south on the in the year. Brown crab on the offshore can be reclaimed (presumably) Local meetings over the issue were held with Smalls grounds but this is more prone to ground will, hopefully, soon be displaced there remains a large cash councillors and politicians present, and now tides, and to the north, in the west of Scotland by the migration inshore. Some of the small flow impact which will reflect Irish Lights have incensed their opinion by waters of the south Minch, some Kilkeel crabbers which are fit have switched to a on the economics of a fishing advertising for tender the replacement of two vessels are trying their luck in a ‘more fishy’ shallow water night trawl fishery for prawns vessel, particularly through similar lights on RathIin Island, with inference prawn fishery, less impacted by quota. and are generally doing OK, but this is not weekly expenses and crew that this may apply in the future to several other In recent days, a fishery has appeared in seen to be a long-term option. settlings, which can only lighthouses including St John’s Point. Calls to the Clyde as well with a few Portavogie men Quota could yet be an issue after a very further discourage crew halt the process are voiced by local politicians, in amongst the locals. This may be more a slow start to the year due to COVID tie-up recruitment if they too have to but more recently concerns are being voiced portent for the future autumn/winter time and reduced effort since then – the prawn wait on a reclaim process with over the use of LED lights and their impact when traditionally the Irish Sea slacks off. quota has taken a hit in area VII and is its own implications. on human and wildlife health. And the options There remains one sole Northern Ireland boat running tight. Some slack exists in Scottish This issue is, at present, out now being given to Irish Lights are to revert on the Porcupine Bank – the market being a holdings, but things generally work out... to consultation and whilst this to the old original configuration or, preferably, constraint on the fleet usually seen there. although there is always a first time. Irish Sea process is usually seen as a turn the light off altogether. On the whitefish front, many of the boats cod is also quota tight, along with other cod rubber stamp it is probably Worthwhile to note, that the funding for the previously in that sector have decamped stocks in the wider area. worth making an objection. lights comes from a levy on seafarers through to the prawns – again, this may yet be an There is movement in the pelagic sector Treasury, after all, will incur light dues and that their opinion has not been important winter fishery when things get with the participants preparing for the start Lady Jean returning to Ardglass port in the no losses, it will reflect only slack otherwise, but this could be reliant of the season and vessels and gear being early morning sun. (Credit: Chris Feenan) on the size of their loan sought by the objectors, particularly on the indebtedness. proposal to turn the light off. on local markets as the demand on the UK readied.

18 News INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 INTERNATIONAL News 19

SCOTLAND NEWS Scotland frozen out of maritime and fisheries discussions Brexit continues to expose tensions in the Union John C. Gowie – Distant water skipper and fishing journalist

By Keith Broomfield on fishing boats working the distant and quickly pointing out if he felt the Minch, but here was a man who water grounds towards the Arctic, something was wrong or unfair. talked of ships and trips to Bear serving on vessels such as Aberdeen Alison said: ‘I was privileged to Island in the Barents Sea and weather Venturer, Japonica, Ben Brackie, and work with John on SFW for many experienced by no ordinary men. Ben Loyal. Quickly recognised for years. He was a true Aberdonian ‘John commanded respect within his leadership potential and sound – ‘stoic throughout’ and a better the industry with his extensive common-sense, he worked his way colleague and friend you could not knowledge of fishing gear; knowledge up to skipper boats for the Ben have wished to work alongside. that he was extremely willing to share fishing fleet, becoming one of the top ‘John was the first Scottish with the up and coming generations. skippers of his time. correspondent based on the east coast He rubbed shoulders with many of the He was particularly proud of for SFW, which was part of the Oban top North East skippers and was very serving on the Ben Asdale, which had Times Group. From his office on proud of his friendship with the likes developed a formidable reputation as the quayside in Aberdeen, he would of Terry Taylor, taking great delight in The late John C. Gowie a top fish catcher. cast a sharp eye over the comings writing the review of each newly built John loved fishing but he never and goings of the fleet of fishing and vessel as it was launched. talked much about his time at sea, commercial boats and many folk ‘It was always a delight to meet up ohn C. Gowie, the former despite the many adventures and called-in to get his ‘craic’ and great with John and his wife Sheila at the technical editor of Scottish experiences he must have faced sense of humour. annual fishing exhibitions in Glasgow JFishing Weekly, sadly passed in truly challenging conditions. ‘‘Fit like’ and ‘How’s it going’ and Aberdeen, with many fine tales of away recently. Although, he once let slip in a private were his eternal catchphrases – his life at sea. He was like a magnet A former fisherman from conversation that on one occasion and everyone in the Oban office to the East Coast skippers of his Aberdeen, his love of fishing and he was washed overboard from his looked forward to John’s visits from generation, bringing many leads to Overhauling gear at Fraserburgh. (Credit: Eugene Rutter) everything related to the industry vessel in stormy and icy seas, only for Aberdeen. He entertained the office, the table. always shone through, as did his the next wave to send him crashing regaling everyone with his sense of ‘John lived and breathed the compassion and wonderful sense of back onto the deck again! humour and great company. He was fishing industry and was very proud discussions. Disruption.’ humour. On retiring from sea in the late a true character, the like of which we to have served and contributed on all By Lia ní Aodha “This is more than just another example of Written by a team of UK-based academics, After retiring from sea, he became 1980s, he was the perfect choice don’t see today. He was held high levels. UK Ministers seeking to undermine devolution the paper highlighted that disagreements Scottish Fishing Weekly’s technical for the then fledgeling Scottish respect within the industry at all ‘Thankfully, he took the time to oncerns from Scotland once more, as and respect for devolved competencies – it between the UK and Scottish governments over editor in 1989. Based in Aberdeen, Fishing Weekly (SFW) newspaper, levels. ‘ write down much of what he had Brexit continues to expose tensions compromises our ability to protect Scottish where the line between devolved and reserved John covered a wide range within based in Oban, to become its east ‘After retiring from SFW, John learnt at sea, generating a sizeable in the Union, with Scotland’s Justice interests and seriously hampers the UK’s Brexit lies in fisheries policy has led to difficulties in his work. As well as boat reviews coast correspondent and technical kept on writing with his popular volume of column inches in the C Secretary, Humza Yousaf expressing deep preparations on this critical matter. formulating a post–Brexit fisheries framework. and general reporting from the east editor, bringing fishing knowledge column Shootin’ the Breeze with ‘Wee Paper’ and consequentially concerns that Scotland has been excluded from “I have written to the UK’s Transport Fisheries, usually considered a devolved coast, he wrote the popular ‘Gearbox’ and experience to the small team of Jake Jilsen – borne out of his not everything has been lost in his Brexit Ministerial talks and in late July calling Secretary Grant Shapps calling for an urgent matter, are unique in that it is the only devolved column, where he looked at technical journalists working on the paper at extensive fishing experience. It was passing.’ for an urgent four-nation ministerial meeting on four nation ministerial meeting so we can policy area where the majority of economic issues facing the successful operation the time. an educational sometimes quizzical John was a true Arctic fisherman fisheries and maritime security. properly address these issues.” activity (in terms of total value of landings) is of a fishing vessel. He was especially Davy Shaw, one of the first editors look at fishing techniques with John’s and the trips he went on were long Writing to the UK Transport Secretary, Grant Referencing international talks, but in a in Scotland. Indeed, of the total value of fish interested in fishing gear and how of Scottish Fishing Weekly, said: inimitable slant overriding everything. and arduous – often lasting over three to maximise catching performance ‘John was the original salty sea dog, He will be much missed across many weeks with only three days off at a Shapps, Mr Yousaf complained that devolved similar vein, the Press and Journal reported last landed in the UK, around 60 per cent is landed under different sea conditions. with a world of experience.’ sectors of life. For John, the sea was time, depending on where he was governments have been omitted from the UK month that Fisheries Minister, Fergus Ewing in Scotland. John was in so many ways ahead Alison Chadwick, who also everything.’ fishing. It was not great for family Government’s Ministerial EU Exit Operations has said that it would potentially be detrimental International negotiations, on the other hand, of his time, being very aware of the became the paper’s editor, along Finlay Oman another journalist life, but he made up for this when he Committee, where maritime issues are being to Scotland if the Scottish Government was is a reserved matter. importance of sustainability and with Finlay Oman and myself who on the SFW team added: ‘Having was back and latterly in retirement discussed. denied full involvement in international Until Brexit, say the authors, fisheries conservation, and of finding ways to were part of the editorial team, been around the West Coast fishing loved to spend time with his family According to Mr Yousaf, the UK fisheries talks. policy, alongside a number of other policy ensure that trawls released juvenile or remember him as being generous fleet most of my life, exposure to the and grandchildren, of whom he was Government has had no Ministerial level With the Brexit clock once again quickly areas, were stable in terms of the constitutional unwanted fish species. He cared about and kind-hearted, and always experiences of John Gowie through enormously proud. discussions so far this year with the Scottish ticking down, the main fisheries points of understanding between the Scottish and UK the industry and its sustainability. with a mischievous twinkle in his the Scottish Fishing Weekly was He and his wife Sheila had five Government on post-Brexit maritime security, concern for Scotland include the loss of governments about where decisions were Born on 2 April 1937, John first eye. He was a formidable mentor, an eyeopener. A long steam for me children, 16 grandchildren and 13 while the EU Exit Operations Committee has markets, a lack of clarity about the European made and implemented, since some of these went to sea as a deck hand aged 16 keen to offer advice and guidance, was from the Kilbrannan Sound to great-grandchildren. had a number of meetings recently to discuss Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and the policy areas were decided in Brussels and the matter, without invitation to the devolved continued availability of labour after Brexit. implemented at the level of the devolved governments. Mr Ewing said that despite repeated administration. This is despite the fact that Scotland’s waters requests the UK Government had not agreed For instance, with respect fisheries, under the cover 62% of the UK’s domestic Exclusive to Scotland’s full participation in international Common Fisheries Policy Marine Scotland is SCFF LODGES PETITION FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW Economic Zone (EEZ) and many functions fisheries negotiations. responsible for the management of Scotland’s relating to maritime security are devolved, Addressing the Rural Economy and seas and controlling the activities of boats AGAINST SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT including fisheries protection. On top of this, Connectivity Committee, he said that though within the Scottish EEZ, while decisions most of the UK fishing industry is located in Scottish officials had been involved to some regarding annual TACs are taken at EU level by he Scottish Creel pilot proposal was, according levels of bycatch,” say the SCFF. Fishermen’s Association (CFA), Scotland, both in terms of landings and value. extent, the risk was that “unless they are to the Ministers at the Council of Fisheries. Fishermen’s Federation to the SCFF, “designed to trial They say the review has been who represent a mixture of both Mr Yousaf said, “While we remain opposed fuller extent, that we would normally enjoy in And, until now, the UK minister has T(SCFF) have lodged a different aspects of gear restriction sought on the grounds that Marine static and mobile gear operators, to leaving the EU and believe it is extremely the annual round of negotiations in Brussels and normally been accompanied by the devolved petition for judicial review of the (separating mobile and static Scotland, the executive agency said that they “resolutely believe” reckless to rule out an extension to the also the vital negotiations with Norway, Faroes equivalents, and negotiations are arrived at by Scottish Government’s decision to fishing gear) in order to improve responsible for managing Scotland’s that working through the Inshore Transition Period, as a responsible government and Iceland, then there is the risk that decisions discussion between both Marine Scotland and refuse an application by the North the evidence informing inshore fisheries, “refused the Inner Sound Fisheries Group network is the we want to be as fully prepared for Brexit as are taken without Scotland’s position being the Department for Environment, Food and West Responsible Fishermen’s fisheries management”. Pilot based on the results of a public fairest way to have a sustainable possible, including working with the other UK fully set out, expanded and advocated, leading Rural Affairs (Defra). Association (MWRFA) for a More specifically, the proposal consultation rather than applying and viable future, adding: Governments. to a potential detriment to Scotland.” However, the Brexit process, creating fisheries pilot proposal in the Inner was designed to examine the the criteria that their own pilot “Decisions made through this “The Scottish Government has responsibility Drawing attention to some of these issues, a power vacuum, has disrupted this Portavogie Harbour. Image by Stephen McKee Sound of Skye. environmental and economic programme guidance had set out framework give all fishermen a for many aspects of maritime security, in and using fisheries policy as a specific example ‘constitutional understanding’, and the two The petition has been lodged benefits of a ‘creel only’ zone in as the basis on which applications voice. Of course, we don’t expect particular marine and fisheries protection, and of how Brexit has exposed weaknesses in governments have been slow to reach an with the assistance of Fish Legal, the Nephrops fishery in the Inner would be determined.” that every proposals will always given Scotland represents a large area of UK intergovernmental relations in the UK, how agreement on where control over a number of previously known as the Anglers’ Sound. Consultation responses, they go through to implementation for waters, we have extensive expertise to share. Brexit has affected the relationship between the policy areas, including fisheries, should reside Conservation Association. “There is a growing concern that claim, “were dominated by a range of reasons, but in our view Submitted under the Scottish Nephrops trawling has caused the members of the trawl industry.” it’s still the best way to work with “We have had a good working relation with UK and Scottish Governments was discussed once Brexit proper occurs. Government’s Inshore Fisheries chronic decline in west coast fish In a comment to The Skipper other fishermen, static, mobile and the UK Government, but it is deeply concerning in a paper published late last autumn in The In other words, in several areas, it has not Pilots programme, the NWRFA populations because of its very high a spokesperson for the Clyde dive.” that devolved governments have now been Political Quarterly entitled ‘Brexit, Fisheries been quite so clear as to who it is that is actually frozen out of UK Ministers’ maritime Brexit and Scottish Devolution: An Intergovernmental going to be ‘taking back control.’ 20 News INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 INTERNATIONAL News 21

SHETLAND NEWS By Hans J Marter and Chris Cope / www.shetnews.co.uk Toft Pier now expected to be completed in December

HE EXPECTED completion Shetland’s two new state-of-the-art fish date of work on a revamped Toft TPier has slipped to December following the coronavirus crisis. markets now operational The project had already suffered delays associated with weather and Shetland Islands Council without obtaining marine licences. any financial help from government In March, there was a hope that it Lerwick Fishmarket receives its first whitefish landings agencies after a bid for EMFF from local vessel Sedulous LK308, overseen by skipper, would be “substantially complete by funds was turned down. John Wishart. (Credit: John Coutts) summer 2020”. Chair of the council’s harbour board Andrea Manson said she The project to rebuild and extend wanted to congratulate Radiant the run-down pier, which was used Star skipper Victor Laurenson for by a number of inshore fishing boats, being the first to land at the new was approved by councillors last year, market. with the hope that it could attract more “The newly rebuilt and expanded fishing traffic. fish market is a significant asset to The work is being carried out by the local whitefish industry and I Devon-based contractor Teignmouth hope we’ll see many more boxes Marine Services, with the project landed here for many years to costing nearly £3 million. come,” she said. One-third of the cost is being covered Collins said the new markets by grant money from the European were “a tangible sign of where Maritime and Fisheries Fund. we are going”. He said timing of A spokesperson for Shetland Islands opening both new facilities was Council said earlier this month: “The perfect for the fishing industry. current completion date is December “Together with Scalloway 2020, though we’re obviously aware market it shows the magnitude of that adverse weather conditions might Toft Pier demolition. (Credit: Steven Spence) the local fishing industry’s ambition affect this.” as we are heading into this new brave era,” he said. “And even without Brexit the ollowing months of existing system was well under delays due to movement strain, and they were looking to Fishermen urge Greenpeace to tackle the ‘real issues’ Frestrictions to combat the grow in any case. COVID-19 pandemic, Shetland’s “The two new markets come at LOCAL fishermen’s Association, Simon Collins, said would spend less time on intensity in parts of our waters two new fish markets, in Lerwick exactly the right time, as of next leader has urged the environmentalist’s public imaginary stories and more on that are supposed to be protected. and in Scalloway, both became year, we are looking at seriously environmental pressure statements were misleading real issues such as the amount “It must step in and put a operational in early August. building our capacity as we start to A group Greenpeace to focus on the since MPAs are “not no-fishing of gill nets dumped at sea,” he stop to industrial super trawler Local trawler Sedulous (LK308) First fish at Scalloway market. (Credit: Shetland Islands Council) catch more of our own fish.” “real issues” and “stop playing areas” and the super trawlers had added. operations within our offshore was the first to land whitefish at the The new Scalloway market on the ignorance” of its many the quota to fish in these areas There are more than 30 MPAs marine protected areas, something new Lerwick market on 4 August offers around double the floor area thousands of followers. legally. in Scottish waters each protection which will be possible after for sale the following day. A week Maritime and Fisheries Fund, and a decade ago and which have of the previous market, and has Earlier in August, Greenpeace The real issue, he said, is certain habitats, wildlife and Britain leaves the Common later, Scalloway received its first a further £500,000 from Highlands transformed the harbour and been built on the same site as the raised again the issue of super how the companies behind the geology. Fisheries Policy. landing, provided by the Radiant and Islands Enterprise, completes operations. previous building, parts of which trawlers spending an increased trawlers had been able to obtain Greenpeace said super trawlers “Industrial fishing operations were around 40 years old. Star (LK71). the Lerwick Port Authority’s multi- “The market is the latest amount of time fishing in the the necessary quota through the had spent 5,590 hours fishing in have no place in our protected Executive officer with Shetland million-pound investment in a new demonstration of our commitment In recent weeks, the final tasks UK’s Marine Protected Areas Common Fisheries Policy (CFP); 19 protected areas during the first areas. At least 30 per cent of the Fishermen’s Association, Simon fisheries hub in the Holmsgarth to the sustainability of the sector.” to meet food hygiene requirements Collins, hailed both new markets area. Port Authority chief executive have been completed along with (MPAs), including some in the an issue that can only be resolved six months of this year, double UK’s waters should be off limits as a “tangible sign” of where the Port Authority chairman Ronnie Captain Calum Grains added: “The other minor works, such as floor north of Scotland. once the UK is an independent the amount of fishing time in to all industrial fishing activity sector is heading after Brexit. Gair said: “It is the final phase interlocking dredging, building lining and fitting of fixtures. They said banning those coastal state following Brexit. MPAs during the whole of last in a network of fully or highly The new market in Lerwick, in a series of major projects, the Mair’s Quay, Mair’s Pier and The Lerwick market’s four trawlers, some of them more than He added that these vessels year. protected marine areas. supported by £1.73 million of catalyst for which was an extensive market, along with associated temperature-controlled/chilled bays 100 metres in length, would be were fishing mainly with English Chris Thorne, an oceans “A good start towards grant funding from the European dredging programme more than improvements, have created a extend to 1,600 square metres, a good starting point to better quota and described it as a lesser campaigner at Greenpeace UK, achieving this would be to ban modern hub for the industry in compared to 726 square metres in protect those designated areas. issue in Scotland. said: “Our government cannot super trawlers from fishing in our the harbour’s Holmsgarth area at the old market. But executive officer “It would be good if NGOs continue to allow super trawlers protected areas for thousands of Radiant Star skipper Victor Laurenson a cost of more than £30 million, The chilling system is more for Shetland Fishermen’s [non-governmental organisations] to fish with ever increasing hours every year.” increasing co-ordination and environmentally-friendly and co-operation of its activities and energy-efficient. There is increased reinforcing our position as a space for palletising fish and a 400 leading UK port for the sector.” square metre chilled dispatch area. Work on installing a brand new The location on Mair’s Fishing boat owners need to register as food businesses and state of the art electronic fish Quay means improved access auction system is expected to both by sea, including better- WNERS of fishing boats have been or indirectly, to any EU Member State once mean that their catches cannot be exported to start later in August, while fishing suiting landings at all states of urged to contact their local authority’s the UK has left the European Union on 31 EU Member States at the end of the transition agent LHD and the Shetland Fish tide, quayside water depth and environmental health department to December. period,” the council said. Producers’ Association will move approaches having been deepened O register their vessels as ‘food businesses’. Exemptions apply if your catch is intended More details and a registration form can their offices from Lerwick town to 6.2 metres, and by land for They are also required to have their vessels either for personal consumption, or if it does be obtained at https://bit.ly/3hcd7ui or by centre into the building. uplifting fish, the port authority inspected by council officials. not exceed 25kg and is for direct sale from the e-mailing [email protected] Meanwhile, the new £5.4 said. Shetland Islands Council advises that it is a quayside. Food Standards Scotland has also written to million fish market at Scalloway, The site is adjacent to the legal requirement for fishing partnerships who “Vessel owners are responsible for this fishing vessel owners across Scotland on this serving the rich fishing grounds to L-shaped Mair’s Pier, which intend to export their catch, either directly registration process, and failure to do so may subject. the west of the isles, was built by provides more working area and 22 News INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 INTERNATIONAL News 23

Fisheries Statistics indicate smaller vessels UK NEWS harder hit by the pandemic NFFO: No-deal currently most ‘Calm before the storm.’ Economic estimates 2019 for the UK fishing fleet ublished in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide timely evidence likely outcome Revenues, landings and fuel down, total operating profit largely unchanged Pon impacts on commercial sea fishing activity, according to the UK’s monthly Ad hoc statistical release: UK Sea Fisheries s Brexit negotiations continue, in what due to COVID-19 and challenges Statistics for June, smaller vessels, due to their seems to be around in circles, the Fleet economic performance with travel and physical distancing, a dependence on shellfish, have been hardest hit ANational Federation of Fishermen’s data depicts how the fleet different approach to the fleet survey by the pandemic. Organisations (NFFO) has said currently the was positioned just before the is being taken this year. Comparing fishing activity recorded in June oppositional positions of the UK and EU mean pandemic hit. (Credit: Seafish) Vessel owners will be posted a 2020 with that of June 2019, figures published the most likely outcome at present is a no-deal. pack containing the survey form July 28 indicate volumes landed by UK vessels Though difficult to discern from the and guidance on how to complete were down 13 per cent (or just over 26,500 official statements after each round of EU/ it. Survey forms can be completed tonnes), while values fell by 32 per cent to UK negotiations, the overall impression, they and returned Freepost to Seafish or £42,500,000. The number of trips by UK vessels say, is that while there has been progress on a alternatively, they can be done online fell by 22 per cent, to just over 12,500 trips. number of fronts, gaps remain included among or over the phone. The greatest impact was on smaller vessels, them a huge gulf on fisheries. “About 70% of the fishermen with the value of landings by the under 10m and According to the NFFO, though the political we meet in ports take part in our the 10-12m fleet falling by 41 and 52 per cent ambition on both sides is to reach a deal “the survey. Unfortunately this year our respectively, while the quantity of their landings Prime Minister and Chief Negotiator, David researchers aren’t able to meet vessel fell by 23 per cent and 35 per cent respectively. Frost, have made it clear that on fisheries the owners in person so we’re inviting In comparison, the value and quantity of EU will have to travel a very long way from them to complete the survey another landings by over 12m vessels fell by 27 per cent its current position—which is very close to the way. It should only take 15 minutes and 11 per cent respectively. status quo—if a deal is to be made.” to complete and our researchers will Explaining this, by species, the greatest The Commission, on the other hand, is be available by phone or video chat impact of coronavirus is still in the shellfish operating under a mandate from Member States to help if requested,” says Kirsten sector. Shellfish—a species on which there is Potters alongside which makes compromise impossible, they say. Milliken, Economics Project Manager greatest reliance among the 10-12m sector— in Whitby. “These two opposing factors make the epicting how the fleet was species increased by 10%. The months later. at Seafish. saw a 24 per cent decrease in quantity landed (Credit: Mick Bayes Jnr.) likelihood on no deal, at present, the most positioned just before the average price per tonne for demersal “The consequences of the global “Vessel owners can also arrange and a 47 per cent decrease in value. And while likely outcome.” global pandemic hit, Seafish species remained stable, while pandemic will continue to be felt an in-depth discussion with our the value of shellfish continues to contribute In the meantime, talks continue. D significantly to the total value of UK landings, has published the first economic shellfish species saw a 3% decrease. throughout the seafood supply chain. researchers if they want to tell us performance estimates for the UK Fuel costs fell in 2019, with prices Fishing businesses will continue to more about how their business is this has also fallen from 58 per cent to 45 per fishing fleet in 2019. between 46.9 and 53.4 pence per litre face them as they navigate through being affected by current challenges cent. Based on preliminary landings during the course of the year, which the challenges and opportunities and their expectations for the future.” According to the release, this severe impact Two fishermen data and the results of Seafish’s 2019 saw the estimated total spend on ahead as the UK leaves the Common The results, which are shared on the shellfish sector—which throughout fleet survey, the Fleet Economic marine fuel fall to £132 million (7% Fisheries Policy and develops a new with industry and government, help lockdown has suffered the greatest impact—is Performance data indicates the less than in 2018) – although this has trading relationship with the EU.” policymakers better understand the likely contributing to Northern Ireland seeing rescued after UK fleet saw a decrease in fishing been relatively stable when taken as “While estimated overall economic challenges and opportunities facing the greatest decrease in the value of landings (47 revenues to £980 million in 2019, a proportion of total income (14% in performance in 2019 did not vary the fleet. per cent) and vessel trips (40 per cent) as 89 per vessel sinks compared to £1,025 million in 2018. 2018 and 13% in 2019). greatly from the previous year, these In recent months, data from cent of their June catch was made up of shellfish There was a notable reduction At an estimated £240 million figures represent an overall picture last year’s survey was used when both last year and again this year. wo fishermen were rescued off the North in the weight of landings, which in 2019, total operating profit was averaged across the fleet,” she designing targeted COVID-19 Comparing January to June 2020 to the same East coast on August 16, after HM decreased by 12% from 700,170 largely unchanged (down 1% highlighted. support packages for the industry. period in 2019 shows that before COVID-19 Coastguard was contacted by a family tonnes in 2018 to 619,553 tonnes in compared to 2018’s £243 million), “The picture will vary for While governments decided on restrictions, landings for UK vessels were T member who was concerned that their fishing 2019 – half of which is associated representing 24% of total income in individual businesses and some types what support should be offered, it was higher in 2020, with values 10 per cent higher in vessel, Diamond D, which was fishing for with the reduction of mackerel fishing 2019. of vessels will find themselves in a survey data from vessel owners which January 2020 compared to January 2019 and 43 prawns with two crew on board, was overdue. opportunities, with the rest driven There were 4,491 active fishing challenging position. For example, helped ensure that the most up to date per cent higher in February 2020. The vessel was subsequently found 18 miles by lower herring and blue whiting vessels in the UK fleet in 2019 (a these preliminary figures show costs of operating a fishing business This began to change, however, from off the North East coast and contact was made landings. small decrease compared from 4,590 that the economic performance of could be taken into account. March, when the fleet began to be affected by with the crew, who over the VHF explained While the average price per tonne in the previous year), 1,524 of which North Sea beam trawlers has been Dale Rodmell, Assistant Chief the pandemic, with a more severe impact in they had hauled up a large boulder onto the landed increased to £1,582 (8% were ‘low activity vessels’ with a significantly affected. These vessels Executive of the National Federation April, due to this being the first full month of deck after bringing their nets in. higher than in 2018) this was partly fishing income of less than £10,000. were facing average reductions in of Fishermen’s Organisations lockdown in the UK. Though the quantity of Shortly after, all contact with the vessel was due to the change in composition of Commenting on the results Arina revenues of 30-50%.” (NFFO), has called on vessel owners landings began to recover in May to a similar lost and their Emergency Position Indicator landings by the UK fleet. Motova, Chief Economist at Seafish The Economics of the UK to complete the survey. “The way level to 2019, however, the value of these Radio Beacon (EPIRB) was activated. Humber Lower priced small pelagics as a said, “This data from 2019 shows Fishing Fleet report for 2019 will be Seafish will be conducting the fleet landings was still down by 42 per cent. Coastguard Operations Centre quickly tasked share of total UK fleet landings by how the UK’s fishing fleet was published later this year. survey this year has had to change, Tynemouth RNLI lifeboat and the Coastguard weight decreased from 55% in 2018 positioned just before having to deal Meanwhile, work has already but the need for us all to have the search and rescue helicopter to the vessel’s to 50% in 2019. At the same time, with a major shock to the system. It begun on the 2020 Fleet Survey and most up-to-date and accurate picture location. and due to reduction of supply, the represents ‘the calm before the storm’ vessel owners across the UK are of the UK fishing fleet has not,” he Dogger Bank Closure Extended Thankfully the two crew, who were wearing average price per tonne of pelagic that COVID-19 would bring just being asked to take part. said. lifejackets, had managed to get into a life raft All owners of UK registered “I encourage all vessel owners to t the beginning of August, scallop Jim Portus, Chief Executive of South West after the vessel capsized and sank. They were vessel will be contacted by Seafish, engage with Seafish to complete the fishing in the North Sea around Producer Organisation and Chairman of the taken onboard Tynemouth lifeboat and brought inviting them to complete the annual survey in whatever way suits them Dogger Bank was suspended for Scallop Industry Consultative Group said that to shore. socio-economic survey, which asks best to ensure that we all have access A a further three weeks until August 30, having been informed that spawning was still Bev Allen, Duty Controller for HM questions about the financial and to this vital data on how fishing following preliminary analysis of the state of ongoing on many parts of the Bank there was Coastguard said the crew “were extremely operational performance of fishing businesses across the country are the shellfish stock. “no hesitation in agreeing the Defra proposed lucky”. businesses. faring through COVID-19 and other Since the initial four-week closure was additional three weeks closure.” “Thankfully, the crew were wearing their Questions on the impact of challenges.” brought in on 12 July, sampling by Cefas “The industry would, of course, want lifejackets and were able to get into their life COVID-19 are a major part of the Survey packs will be making their had demonstrated scallops in the area are Defra and the FAs to consult more fully raft and are now both safe and well,” she said. survey this year. There will also be way to all UK vessel owners from currently either spawning or about to spawn. with the industry and the wider supply chain “We knew where the crew were but if we an opportunity for vessel owners 21 August. Completed survey forms After reviewing the early stock samples, if any further extension of the closure is hadn’t Personal Location Beacons (PLBs) and to say how effective government should be returned to Seafish by 30 the four Fisheries Administrations (FAs) contemplated or advised,” he said. EPIRBs are a vital tool in an emergency, but support measures have been for their September. determined a three-week extension was Since then, a consultation has been even more so if they are registered to a person businesses. For further information or needed to finish data gathering, produce a launched, closing August 24, on extending and vessel, so help us to help you, and make Usually undertaken by a team of support with completing the survey detailed analysis of the research and to start the closure until October 1 to provide sure you and your vessel are registered and up Fraserburgh harbour researchers visiting hundreds of ports form contact Seafish at fleet.survey@ (Credit: Seafish) preparing a longer-term management plan for increased protection for spawning scallop to date. It’s free to do.” and harbours across the UK, however, seafish.co.uk or on 07876 035 759. the affected sea areas. stocks in the area. 24 News BOATS, GEAR & PRODUCTS SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 BOATS, GEAR & PRODUCTS News 25

A Guide to Auxiliary Sarah Louise A better take Power Options – on Antarctic Marine Applications toothfishing – right down the line

hen asked why a group of Norwegians Pesquera Azul will use stronger line to reduce breakage, would go all-in for longline fishing in thus reducing both lost catch and lost gear Antarctic waters, oceans apart from Still Pristine Past 50 Wtheir North Sea home base, Arne Birkeland has a disarmingly sincere reply: “We are fishermen,” A key feature of the new vessel is an extension arrangements to get people where we need them.” explains Birkeland, CEO of Pesquera Azul, a housing the “Sago Pool”, an adjustable opening The Sago Extreme fish protection solution n Joe Whooley’s Sarah Louise, one of the few remaining Béal Boats left. Based Norwegian-owned longline fishing company in the bottom of the ship that allows landing the is also ready to go. “The equipment is on in Schull, though you wouldn’t know it to look at her the Sarah Louise is over fifty operating out of Uruguay. “Any new opportunity catch in a protected space, as opposed to landing the quayside, ready to deploy,” Birkeland years old… and still in pristine condition. orking vessels that need to ensure optimum profitability in the fishing industry is exciting for us.” lines on the side of the vessel or in a traditional confirms. “The concept has been around for a According to Pat Nolan’s book Life Changers, which charts the history of and power efficiently often require auxiliary power, Birkeland and his founding partners see huge moon pool. In addition, the Sago Pool improves while, but we have leveraged the technology Ireland’s Béal Boats, the 32-footers were built by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) after which is achieved by using a range of solutions utilising potential in the Patagonian Toothfish industry, working conditions by calming the waves inside and experience needed to put it to work.” He W low demand and poor prices paid for lobster in the 1940s resulted in many pre- both pump drives and PTOs. not least because the current fleet is characterised the pool. notes that support from Innovation Norway has World War II lobster boats being laid up and falling into disrepair, which meant that Auxiliary power is commonly required mostly in the form of by ageing assets and inefficient methods. With Baited lines are also deployed from the provided a welcome boost to the development when an upturn came during the 1950s new vessels were needed. hydraulics operating equipment such as cranes, fishing equipment, an innovative new vessel design and longline enclosed Sago Pool. Traditional methods expose process. Mostly dating from the 1960s and built largely at BIM’s yards, according to Mac winches, pot haulers and water pumps, enabling vessels to be technology to increase both volume and quality of the lines to sea birds that get caught when they try While the innovative technology has been fully Cárthaigh’s Traditional Boats of Ireland, the wooden lobster boats, the names of more efficient and run multiple types of equipment direct from the catch, Birkeland and Pesquera Azul are set to to feed on the bait. “By deploying the line from proven in sea trials, Ocean Azul is capable of which were to begin with Béal: Béal Ban, Béal Boirne, Béal Ciara, could load 66 the power train or gensets. Operators appreciate the additional change all that. inside the ship, we can eliminate this risk to the employing traditional methods if needed. “This French barrel pots, which were fished in three trains of 22. benefits auxiliary can deliver; however, available solutions can birds,” Birkeland says. is not a gamble,” Birkeland assures. “We have Pat Nolan details that over the years, thirty-six vessels were issued to fishermen vary depending on the operation, accessible power and specific Less lost catch, fewer lost lines Using model testing of the design, the team has backup systems that will allow us to operate on the basis of a deposit and repayment scheme, working to inject life into the installation requirements. learned that the Sago Pool itself reduces long-ship even if we experience difficulties with the new inshore sector while also providing vital employment at a time when emigration Pump drives, available in several ratios, allow hydraulics to Arguably, the main challenge for longline movement by 40 per cent. “This makes it easier to systems.” figures nationwide were registering at almost 1,000 per week. work in a more efficient speed window. They also allow for shorter toothfishing is the whale population taking work in the aft section of the boat, which was has Pesquera Azul will be conducting tests of installed length and remove the need for multiple belts and pulleys, fish from the lines in large numbers. Studies been difficult with traditional design due to excess the new systems as they go along, providing an providing a neater, resilient and safer solution. Whereas, PFI have shown that as much as 70 per cent of the vessel motion,” Birkeland says. objective comparison with traditional methods, clutches enable pump drives to be clutched from a remote location catch is devoured by whales. “This reduces the The Sago Pool design means added safety Birkeland tells. The tests will be documented by anywhere on the vessel with straightforward wiring, requiring only SNG ‘coupling’ with HDG to catch, and depletes fish stock as well,” says for crew as well, giving them a protected work third parties to ensure validity, including local a 12/24v connection to function. This solution is more commonly Birkeland. “Toothfish stock is slow to build. If we environment in harsh Antarctic conditions. scientists and experts. achieved with manual clutches; however, they need to be engaged provide added strength and can reduce the number of caught fish needed to In addition to the operational advantages Citing this and other examples of bilateral manually in the engine space. PFI clutches alleviate the need to fill quotas, we can help maintain the strength of provided by Ocean Azul, there is the economic cooperation in the project, Birkeland views operate within the engine room. the stock.” benefit for the local and regional economies. “We Pesquera Azul as a joint Norwegian-Uruguayan For users where space is imperative, multi-head pump drives can increased safety for fishermen Pesquera Azul’s innovative “Sago Extreme” have a local representative running the company project: “We are in contact with the Uruguayan be sandwiched between the engine and gearbox, to utilise space in concept, developed by Sago Solutions AS, in Uruguay, and the Ocean Azul will be an authorities in order to present the benefits of this the engine room better. Furthermore, coupling solutions provide a n “A chain is only as strong as its usual corrosion expectancy levels. encloses the catch using a cage that runs along Uruguayan-registered vessel employing local project to both countries, and to Antarctic longline direct drive from the engine crank, removing the need for additional weakest link” is a well-known phrase Naturally, such new anti-corrosion the line, collecting and protecting live fish until crews,” Birkeland says. He reports that the overall fishing.” belts. but one that is particularly pertinent on technology means that these products they can be landed in the boat. Damage to the fish enterprise should create 40-50 new local jobs. He notes that the foreign ministry of When looking at auxiliary power, one consideration that must the deck of a fishing vessel where the command a slightly more expensive caused by gaffing when hauling laden lines is also “Sustainable fishing is a high priority for Uruguay has expressed their support for the not be overlooked is varying installation factors and engine models. strength of links and connectors plays a price but the savings in the long run, eliminated. regional and local authorities, and our concept can project. “Uruguay wants to be known as a secure Various coupling options and connection interfaces can be used to vital role in smooth operations and the with an item’s lifetime increased by Lost fishing lines are another major issue help them achieve this goal,” says Birkeland. “A investment environment, and we feel confident ensure the benefits of hydraulic power solutions are available to all safety of the crew. two or three times and with much less facing the Patagonian Toothfish industry. “Some big part of what we are doing is helping to bring a in getting their full support for this significant operators offering: And, for this very reason, many maintenance required, means that any of the most productive fishing grounds are higher standard of operations to the region.” investment in the Uruguayan economy.” • Front and back engine mounting fishermen have to spend much time price difference will more than pay for contaminated by lost equipment,” says Birkeland. Arne Birkeland feels certain that the Ocean • Flexible or rigid mounted ensuring that such links, connectors and itself in the long term. For years the fleet has had to avoid these good Ready to go to work Azul concept is an idea whose time has • Clutched and live options hooks are all in good working order so Demand is already high for this new fishing grounds due to these so-called “ghost come: “We can improve the catch and strengthen • Speed up/down ratios that any mishaps at sea can be avoided range and it has been difficult to keep lines”. Now Pesquera Azul is taking initiative for After experiencing construction delays, the fish stock, while significantly improving • Driveshaft options for remote mounting on pumps, clutch or But such concerns can be put aside up with in-house stock so SNG are now the cleanup. new vessel is basically ready for deployment, working conditions and safety for crews,” he pump drive. with a new range of Swedish-made taking orders for the next delivery. Their new vessel, Ocean Azul, will be equipped Birkeland says. “COVID-19 restrictions have concludes. “At the end of the day, these are the Users should also ensure full six degrees of freedom and TVA Gunnebo Draglinks, Masterlinks, BK Contact SNG at www.sng.ie or call with the “Ghost Gear Cleaner” toolkit to collect made transportation of the necessary expertise things that really matter for everyone in the calculations are completed to confirm acceptability and control of Hooks and BKL Hooks (with swivel any SNG outlets nationwide (see list of lost gear and return it to shore. The new boat will to the yard a challenge, but we have now made fishing industry.” torsional and linear vibrations. Modular and commercially available attached) available from SwanNet- contacts on website) also employ stronger line to reduce breakage, thus options are the smart solution due to varying application needs and Gundry Ltd. (SNG) through Gunnebo’s reducing both lost catch and lost gear. “Our goal requirements. new HDG technology. is to have a vessel that retrieves more lines than it MIT, who since 1974 has been designing, supplying and With equal or even higher strength The strength of links loses,” Birkeland states. than existing products currently on and connectors plays servicing transmissions and driveline systems across the UK/ a vital role in smooth Ireland, has supplied several auxiliary power solutions and have the market, this new range requires operations Meeting the challenges of Antarctica equipment successfully installed onboard vessels such as fishing less maintenance whilst also giving boats, FI-FI vessels, ferries and superyachts, and can work with you an expected working life of five to ten Ocean Azul is designed and built specifically to to specify the best solution for your application. years (and longer in certain types of face challenging Antarctic conditions, a departure The UK and Ireland distributors of Twin Disc, Transfluid, fishing vessels) – compared to current from current practice, Birkeland relates. “Most Rubber Design, Arneson, Rolla and Quincy compressors, MIT has types which have an average life span longliners operating today are under-dimensioned bases in southern and northern England, providing comprehensive of three to five years. for the Antarctic climate, and there are frequent UK and Ireland coverage along with an established global mobile This longevity is the result of the use incidents of hull damage due to ice.” support service, delivered by a highly trained and dedicated of carefully forged high tensile steel Ocean Azul is built to the highest ice class technical engineering team and a significant inventory of world- (quenched and tempered, Grade 8/80) for commercial vessels, ensuring a higher class brands, including new and refurbished transmissions, driveline which is then galvanised hot-dipped level of safety for both the crew and the systems and spare parts. (to ISO 1461:2009 standard) with an environment. “We have also installed a redundant average coating thickness of 70 μm on power supply, to ensure safe return to port in the With an innovative new vessel design and longline technology, For more visit https://www.mitgroup.co.uk/ the components which greatly reduces event of main power plant failure,” he says. Pesquera Azul will increase both volume and quality of the catch 26 News SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 News 27

BIM Launches Water Dauntless Courage: MGPS Ltd Launches OBITUARIES Stewardship Programme Book Celebrating the Ultraguard Antifouling Louis Dillon: Skipper and author

for Seafood Processors History of Dunmore rish fishing lost one of its vessels, while also writing for most colourful characters several fishing publications, East RNLI Ion July 1st when well- including on occasion this known skipper and author one. Louis Dillon passed away in Eventually, Louis and his Bantry Hospital. wife Vera would move to An extremely experienced Castletownbere, where, in fisherman who was originally his retirement, he went on to from Cobh, Louis skippered publish a collection of short boats on both sides of the stories, Tales of Iveragh and Atlantic and authored several Beara (Volumes I and II), books. about the modernisation of After joining his first the south-west of Ireland. Louis Dillon fishing vessel at just Just two years ago Louis fourteen, Louis would go published The Saga of Fiach arine Growth Prevention Specialists Ltd (MGPS), on to study journalism in and Tadhg, a historical novel Government and HSE world leaders in supplying environmentally Dublin, graduating in 1970, set in the Hiberno-Norse age COVID guidelines on public friendly antifouling solutions to the commercial and during his journalistic of the Viking invasions of gatherings, Louis’ funeral The programme aims to help processors M career wrote for several Ireland. on Saturday, July 4th was improve water management practices marine industry, are immensely proud to launch their new David Carroll at Lifeboat Build Facility, RNLI HQ, Poole. Ultraguard commercial ultrasonic antifouling system into publications, including the Pre-deceased by his wife private. His colleagues and the market. News of the World and Irish Vera, Louis will be deeply friends got a chance to bid Press. missed and remembered him farewell, however, when new Water Stewardship businesses to undertake a series of Having worked closely with shipping companies and vessel owners, listening to their feedback and Towards the end of that by his three children his hearse travelled from Support Programme for onsite actions for improving their unmore East RNLI has been understanding their requirements, this insight led us to the decade, the draw of the sea Róisín, Fiach and Sadhbh, Harrington’s Funeral Home, seafood processors was water management practices and saving lives off the South A realisation that the best way we could supply the industry would lure Louis from the grandchildren Tadhg, Castletownbere and made launched by Bord iascaigh Mhara reducing water related impacts. East coast since 1884. Since notebooks back to fishing, Aoibheann and Meara, the slow journey down the (BIM) on Tuesday, 25 August 2020. The programme, which will D with what they need was to develop and build our own then, lifeboats based in the village system and Ultraguard Antifouling was born. and his work as a skipper siblings Amelia, Ann Marie town’s pier for his final trip. The BIM Water Stewardship also be accepted as part of Bord have launched nearly 1000 times, Ultraguard has been designed, developed and in the North Atlantic would and Robert, son-in-law Sean, The Skipper would Support Programme, run in Bia’s Origin Green programme, saved over 305 lives and aided manufactured entirely within the UK. The majority of this bring him as far as the Faroes, Sadhbh’s partner P.J, brother- like to extend our sincere partnership with Central Solutions was successfully piloted last year 1315 people in distress on the seas work has taken place within the Central Belt of Scotland. Iceland and Newfoundland, in-law and good friend Alfie condolences and deepest and funded under the European delivering significant efficiencies along the Waterford and Wexford Believing in the strength of local business, MGPS also before his eventual return to Jones along with his extended sympathies to Louis’ family Maritime and Fisheries Fund, aims and cost savings for participating coasts. chose to source as much of the components from UK Ireland in the 1980s, where family, neighbours and and friends, both in Ireland to assist Irish seafood processing firms. David Carroll, son of Captain suppliers as possible. he would settle in Kerry, and friends. and abroad. Desmond Carroll, a former Scotland’s industrial heartland has been at the forefront go on to skipper several Irish In accordance with May he rest in peace. Harbour Master in Dunmore is of innovation and manufacturing for centuries. MGPS currently completing a book on the has drawn on that knowledge bank and skilled workforce history of the Dunmore East RNLI to design an antifouling system at the cutting edge of lifeboats and the community from Michael D (Slim) O’Sullivan technology. which the crews are drawn. The system uses pulses of ultrasonic sound at various David, who has spent nearly Beara fisherman makes final trip down Castletownbere pier frequencies to create an environment where marine growth two years researching the book can’t colonise the surface and begin its life cycle. By which is now near completion, keeping the ship’s hull, sea chests, pipework and cooling est Cork’s Castletownbere before grew up in Dunmore East and see the names of the Henry system free from marine growth, it saves vessel owners fuel tight-knit fishing retiring from the sea. A whilst moving from the village in Dodd and Fanny Harriet on the and maintenance costs whilst reducing harmful greenhouse Wcommunity were familiar sight around the his 20s to pursue a career he has records boards that were in a small gas emissions. left mourning one of their town’s piers he was always always retained a great love for fuel store on the pier. I never could Because Ultraguard uses ultrasonic technology and not own last month, when well- generous with his time and the maritime heritage he inherited have imagined that one day, I biocides, it achieves all this whilst emitting zero pollutants known and respected Beara knowledge to many young growing up in the village. would be researching and writing into the marine ecosystem. The system doesn’t require fisherman, Michael D (Slim) fishermen starting off and The book, Dauntless Courage: about these famous lifeboats”. a vessel to be dry docked to install it and it doesn’t use O’Sullivan of 28 St Joseph’s ready with a needle in his Celebrating the History of the Brendan Dunne, RNLI volunteer any expensive consumables such as Impressed Current Villas, Castletownbere and hand to help any fishermen Dunmore East RNLI, their crews crew with Dunmore East RNLI Antifouling (ICAF) anodes. Bere Island, Beara, Co Cork mend their gear. Michael D O’Sullivan and the Maritime Heritage of the said: “As crew we are delighted Ultraguard has also been designed with a modular passed away peacefully in the From a well-known fishing Local Community, which is based to see a book of this calibre been construction where each transducer has its own separate presence of his loving family family, two of Michael’s on archives both here in Ireland written. It is a testimony to the friend and colleague on his power supply and control PCB allowing easy maintenance and the excellent care staff at brothers, Pat and John, also and the RNLI archives in Poole, maritime history of the village and final trip. and repairs if they are damaged. Ship’s staff can simply Castletownbere Community made their living from the England, will detail the boats that the volunteers who go to sea to Beloved husband of switch out the damaged component in minutes. It also has Hospital on July 30th. sea, fishing their own boats. were stationed in Dunmore and the rescue people in distress. Angela (nee Corbett), and a unique memory and programming function which allows Originally from Bere Today, carrying on that stories of the rescues they carried “David has ensured that the much loved father of Tracy, system logs to be taken and parameters to be adjusted Island, and fondly known family tradition, both his sons out. legacy of RNLI volunteers and Darren and Joe, Michael is quickly in situ. by everyone as Slim, he Joe and Darren are skippers. Also included will be many supporters past and present will deeply mourned and sadly With Ultraguard, MGPS have moved the ultrasonic began his career on Michael On account of the current interesting and unique photographs always be remembered in times eye missed by his cherished antifouling sector into the future and as the only Crowley’s Seaflower which guidelines in the context of that have not appeared in public and that the Lifeboat is an integral grandsons Donal and commercial ultrasonic antifouling system designed and was later tragically lost the coronavirus pandemic, before. The story of the village part of the community in Dunmore William, Joe’s partner Olivia manufactured in the United Kingdom, Ultraguard has with all five crew before Michael’s funeral at The itself, and its link as a fishing and surrounding areas.” and Darren’s partner Sophie, put Britain on the front line of environmentally friendly he went on to fish on Mick Church of the Sacred Heart, community with the lifeboats and All proceeds from the book will his sister Mary, brothers Pat, antifouling solutions. Orpen’s Ardent. Michael Castletownbere was private. crews, brings the reader from the be going to the local Dunmore East fished his own boat, After his requiem mass, Dan and John, sisters-in-law, earliest times of saving lives at sea Lifeboat Fundraising Branch to the 65’ trawler San which took place on Saturday, brother-in-law, nephews, in the area up to the present. support the saving of lives on our Pablo, very successfully for August 1st, the funeral nieces, extended family, David Carroll, author of seas. many years around the South cortège made their way down neighbours and friends. Dauntless Courage said: “I feel that For pre-orders and further West, and was a regular Castletownbere pier, where The Skipper team would I have been extremely fortunate information on the book visitor at Dunmore East for fishermen from far and near like to express their deepest to have been given this wonderful visit: www.dunmorelifeboatbook. the Celtic Sea herring. carried his coffin the length condolences to Michael’s rranmore RNLI Coxswain, Jimmy Early receiving a donation from opportunity of writing a history of com After the San Pablo of the pier, while many others family, extended family and Roisín Lynch and her cousin Marie McDonald from Wexford, the Dunmore East RNLI Lifeboats Alternatively, you can email: was lost off Dursey Island lined the route observing many friends around the Awho made and sold masks during their holidays on Arranmore and and their volunteer crews. [email protected] in 1994, Michael fished social distancing guidelines coast. donated part of the proceeds to the Arranmore RNLI. Well done girls! “As a small boy, I used to on several vessels from to pay their respects to their May he rest in peace. 28 News MARINE INSTITUTE SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 MARINE INSTITUTE News 29

International collaboration on Smart Lobster project in Galway Bay platforms across Europe. As countries. knowledge into action at a local knowledge and best practice, a member of the EuroGOOS The IOLN also participated in level. and collaborate on projects and (European Global Ocean the first Ocean Literacy Summit “We are delighted to connect initiatives,” Dr Noirin Burke New project to monitor prawn burrowing Observing Systems) Ocean on World Oceans Day in June with other organisations across said. “After all, our ocean Literacy Network, which aims 2020 where the successes of Europe – as a collective we connects us all.” he Marine Institute is collaborating footage provided by the camera to assess the Nephrops emerging to broaden ocean literacy the Ocean Literacy community can reach broader audiences For more information on with scientists in Spain as part of a new digging activity and maintenance of burrows efforts globally, the IOLN is worldwide were celebrated and and generate a larger impact. the IOLN or how to become a project, Smart Lobster, to monitor the by Nephrops. Scientists will also analyse the from burrow T cooperating with experts from shared, enabling collaborations We can join our efforts in member, visit the IOLN website digging activity and maintenance of burrows role of ecological and environmental factors of the Nephrops norvegicus, commonly that modulate burrow emergence, such as the 20 organisations across eight to transform scientific achieving ocean literacy, share at https://irishoceanliteracy.ie/ known as the Dublin Bay Prawn, using the presence of prey or predators. EMSO SmartBay Observatory located in The results of the Smart Lobster project Galway Bay. will have implications for stock assessment Current methods for counting populations of this species, allowing standardisation of cannot account for variability in the animals demographic data obtained with trawl nets INFOMAR: Laying the foundation for mapping and emerging from their burrows. This study will (fishery-dependent sampling) and towed solve that problem by helping to understand sledges (fishery-independent sampling) upon the magnitude of that variability and lead to animals’ burrow emergence variability. norvegicus within the frame over the next 12 understanding our ocean resources a more accurate assessment of population Dr Paul Connolly, CEO of the Marine months. numbers to ensure a sustainable fishery into Institute said, “Off the coast of Ireland, the Commenting on the EMSO SmartBay reland through its national As an island nation, Ireland has the future. behaviour of Nephrops are being tracked Observatory, Dr Aguzzi said, “Coastal seabed mapping programme, historically looked to the sea as Mid Atlantic Ridge, underwater mountain Smart Lobster is monitoring the burrow using video-cabled observatory technology cabled observatories of this kind represent an INFOMAR has achieved a means of trade, transport and emergence behaviour of Nephrops norvegicus for the first-time. Nephrops are one of the excellent opportunity to provide pilot studies I global recognition for its exploration. We are intrinsically by using the underwater camera on the EMSO most important commercial fishery resources to technologically advance more classic endeavour to systematically map linked with all things maritime, SmartBay Observatory. The Observatory is in Europe, and the knowledge from the stock assessment approaches, providing the seabed of its entire marine backed by a rich seafaring located on the seabed (20m to 25m depth) off Smart Lobster project will assist in the new ecological data in multidisciplinary and territory, and to unlock and heritage & culture. At the end the coast of Spiddal in Galway Bay and this sustainable management of this species. It highly-integrated fashion.” sustainably manage the associated of the 20th Century, Ireland set area is one of the North East Atlantic fishery is vital that countries come together to work Alan Berry, Marine Institute’s Research resources. International out to fully investigate the ocean grounds for this species. The project will also on international projects like these, so we Infrastructure Manager said, “By supporting involve the use of a new autonomous imaging can share data, expertise and infrastructure, and promoting national research infrastructure partnership and collaboration of opportunity that is our vast device, which has been designed for long-term and deepen our knowledge on our marine such as the EMSO SmartBay Observatory in between governments, industry, marine territory. Through the deployment. resources.” Galway Bay, the Marine Institute facilitates and academia have evolved as Government of Ireland resourced The project’s chief scientist, Dr Jacopo The Marine Institute is also coordinating world class scientific research and supports Ireland influences the roadmap Irish National Seabed Survey Aguzzi from the Institute of Marine Sciences the operational aspects of the project. A new knowledge for improving marine towards better ocean governance, (1999-2005) and its successor (ICM-CSIC) in Spain is working with Marine steel frame was constructed to assist with ecosystem management.” essential for the safety of society, INFOMAR (2006-2026), Irish Institute scientists Jennifer Doyle and Dr monitoring the activity of the Nephrops The Smart Lobster project is one of three our future food security, our efforts in systematically mapping Colm Lordan to provide specialist fishery norvegicus and was deployed by a team of transnational access projects funded by energy, and for positive climate our entire seabed will complete management and policy knowledge. The divers. The camera and the imaging device the EMSO-Link project (Grant Agreement action and adaptation. the Real Map of Ireland, leave a scientists will evaluate and analyse the video will record the activity of up to 15 Nephrops 731036). The Marine Institute and legacy for future generations, and Geological Survey Ireland provide a scientific foundation for (GSI) INFOMAR programme accelerated coastal and marine team aim to complete Ireland’s economic growth. and offshore Ireland and support date. INFOMAR’s systematic seabed mapping by end 2026, INFOMAR—the national maritime spatial planning. mapping approach has been potentially being the first country seabed mapping programme One of the actions of the adopted in the “AORA The next generation at the heart of our ocean’s future globally to do so. In parallel, they which is resourced through the DCCAE Climate Action Seabed Mapping Roadmap” are raising the awareness and Department of Communications, Plan 2019 is to complete the published by the EU, USA, “While our ocean covers two- ocean through the Marine impact of seabed mapping, and Climate Action and Environment mapping of all Irish offshore and Canada composed Atlantic thirds of the Earth’s surface, the Institute’s Explorers Education the innovation and technology (DCCAE), and managed waters through the INFOMAR Seabed Mapping International vast majority of people know Programme. Primary school development opportunities jointly by Marine Institute and Programme to support site Working Group. The extensive very little about our ocean students and teachers take part that Ireland can potentially Geological Survey Ireland— selection for offshore renewable international network developed and its influence on our lives. in marine projects, seashore derive from this world-leading provides seabed depth, habitat, energy, ocean energy research, by INFOMAR is a key pathway Since the Irish Ocean Literacy safaris and have aquariums in endeavour. and geology data, critical for development and demonstration to channel future associated Irish Network formed in 2016, we the classroom to learn more Sean Cullen, GSI Joint multi-sectoral marine activity pathway for emerging marine innovation, products and services. have facilitated collaborations, about our ocean. The Explorers INFOMAR Manager highlighted and growth. Site selection for technologies (wave, tidal, INFOMAR’s open data supported initiatives, grown Education Programme also that “a recent special publication offshore renewable energy floating wind) and associated test policy and digital maps and our network and engaged with offers lesson plans for teachers, accepted by the Geological and telecommunications infrastructure. products provide a window for others to increase ocean literacy teacher training activities and Society of London entitled infrastructure, navigation charts In 2008, PricewaterhouseCoopers Ireland’s SME sector to develop in Ireland. To ensure a healthy engage families at festivals and ‘Mapping Ireland’s coastal, shelf for safe shipping, transport and assessed the potential return and market their services. Primary school students learn ocean for us now and for future events year-round. and deep water environments’ marine leisure, and protecting on investment of the 20 year Opportunities are diverse, about the ocean through the Marine Institute’s Explorers generations, we all need to be Dr Paul Connolly, CEO of features case studies sensitive habitats and fish nursing INFOMAR programme including the use of INFOMAR Education Programme. better informed about how the the Marine Institute said, “It demonstrating the multiple grounds, all rely on accurate investment of €80 million. shipwreck maps and 3D models (Credit: Brian Lougheed). ocean affects us and how what is really important to cultivate applications of INFOMAR data seabed maps. Having taken a cautious to attract international dive and we do affects the oceans.” an interest in the ocean from and products”. In Harnessing Our Ocean approach, a 4-6 times return angling tourism trade, the use The IOLN, which involves a young age, so that they Thomas Furey, Marine Institute Wealth, the State’s national on investment to the state was of stunning seabed imagery he health of our ocean wealth, not just in Ireland but 40 organisations and 100 understand how important the Joint INFOMAR Manager marine plan, INFOMAR is indicated based on sectoral on clothing, or the use of the relies on the next further afield. individuals from industry, ocean is to our society. The relayed that “from an innovation tasked with completing our growth projections. This seminal accurate depth data to model Tgeneration to be ocean Our ocean is vital to life education, government Marine Institute, along with perspective, the INFOMAR team seabed mapping, an essential seabed mapping related economic how much aquaculture an leaders, striving for change and itself, providing us with more organisations and charities, are the IOLN and the Explorers are coordinating a Small Business task to realise the country’s assessment has been widely cited, inshore bay can sustainably inspired to work together to than half of the oxygen we working together to achieve an Programme, aim to inspire Innovation Research (SBIR) coastal and maritime sustainable supporting business cases for support. The Marine Institute sustainably protect our marine breathe. The ocean is the ‘Ocean Literate Society’ across the next generation of ocean project, co-funded by Marine growth potential. Overarching the launch of strategic national and Geological Survey Ireland resource. Many organisations world’s largest ecosystem and Ireland. An ocean literate person champions, encouraging them Institute and Enterprise Ireland. It drivers relate to; (i) exploration mapping programmes elsewhere will continue to raise the profile across Ireland have been raising home to nearly a million known is someone who understands to pursue marine and maritime will fund innovative approaches to achieve knowledge and globally, including in the UK, and impact of the INFOMAR awareness about the importance species. As well as providing their influence on the ocean and careers and to become the ocean to image focussed seaweed understanding of this complex Norway and USA. programme to support industry of our ocean and our influence us with food, the ocean is its influence on their daily life, leaders and marine champions identification, mapping and system, (ii) resource assessment The INFOMAR programme is growth, research and innovation, on the ocean to our young a gateway for shipping and and can make positive choices of the future.” resource assessment, developing to determine living and natural on budget and on target to deliver to provide a scientific data-based people. Now, through the influences our weather and for a sustainable ocean for the As well as raising awareness technologies or services that resource distribution, (iii) for Marine Ireland. Ireland has foundation for government Irish Ocean Literacy Network climate. future. about the importance of the may have multiple applications protection to conserve sensitive achieved international recognition decision support, and to inform (IOLN), these organisations are Dr Noirin Burke of Galway In Ireland, more than 12,000 ocean across Ireland, the IOLN in coastal zone management habitats and predict marine and in the hydrographic and seabed the public through innovative working together to increase Atlantaquaria and Co- primary school students is now collaborating further and marine environmental coastal risk, and (iv) governance mapping communities for its platforms such as interactive our understanding of our ocean Secretariat for the IOLN said, each year learn about our afield, and connecting with monitoring”. to legislate and manage coastal approach and achievements to story maps. 30 Opinion & Analysis SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 Opinion & Analysis 31

Ardnakinna lighthouse. (Credit: Niall Duffy) had fled these shores over previous centuries—we would not “mobilise technology”, he “Brexit creates a really serious challenge, as industry organisations said. have outlined, yet there seems to be a reluctance here to seek a more That same year, a marine management system which equitable revision of the policy, based on proximity to a resource.” has had devastating results for coastal states like this one was rubberstamped. Just two EU That active Atlantic system Like Dr Sullivan, there A global pandemic can focus states—Ireland and Denmark— which could turn Ireland into are many women involved attention on the potential of the had a surplus of fish at the time of a “Green Gulf” of renewable in the forefront of marine ocean environment and the rich Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) energy, in the words of one research, development, waters around this island – as formulation. developer, could fuel home innovation, along with master a vital source of protein, new The CFP is subject to ten- energy needs and bulk hydrogen mariners, harbourmasters, medical treatments and a source yearly reviews, which now exports. The 30-year strategy sailors like Olympic medallist of renewable energy. However, place much greater emphasis drawn up by the Eirwind Annalise Murphy and offshore a pandemic might also distract on sustainability. Brexit creates consortium involving University yachtswoman Joan Mulloy. attention from its fragility, and a really serious challenge, as College, Cork researchers Dr Val Yvonne Shields O’Connor, the fact that man-made rubbish industry organisations have Cummins (now gone into private formerly of the Marine Institute, has reached the remote Mariana outlined, yet there seems to be practice) and Dr Jimmy Murphy is chief executive of the Trench and microplastics are a reluctance here to seek a more and industry cites the importance Commissioners of Irish Lights, poisoning the deepest ocean equitable revision of the policy, of prioritising the long-awaited and Ireland’s first female master creatures. based on proximity to a resource. marine planning framework and marine Capt Sinead Reen is in “We have taken for granted the As the late Castletownbere supporting legislation. a senior role at the National fact that we have been fortunate fishermen and industry leader The reports by NUI Galway’s Maritime College of Ireland. to live in the Goldilocks Zone – Donal O’Driscoll pointed Socio-Economic Marine And Irish people no longer that sweet spot in relation to the out, the initial deal struck in Research Unit which inform the have to leave to have an impact Sun,” Dr Sullivan told me in a favour of agricultural benefits government’s Harnessing Our in that big blue field. Marine recent interview. and structural funds was never Ocean Wealth strategy show Institute chief executive Dr Paul Ireland is in the sweetest intended by our EU masters to be a positive trend. It recently Connolly has been at the helm “Goldilocks Zone” when it “cast in stone”. reported on the opportunities of the prestigious International comes to marine resources. EU directives on the which coastal tourism could Council for the Exploration We must be ready to manage environment have had a more offer during this pandemic. of the Seas (ICES), and his that good fortune sensitively, positive influence, though Complementing the research predecessor, Dr Heffernan, is one and for both communities and sometimes failing to protect in third-level institutions and the of 15 experts on the European individuals, when the gold rush Ireland: An island in the ‘Goldilocks Zone’ for communities from the pressures efforts of the Marine Institute Commission’s Mission Board for comes. of the market. A template for and BIM, there are also a Healthy Oceans, Seas, Coastal democratic planning published plethora of individuals and non- and Inland Waters. And the *This piece was written by rich marine resources by the British Institution of governmental organisations who unthinkable happened in 2015 Lorna Siggins as part of the Civil Engineers four years ago have helped to raise awareness when a former Naval Service Marine Institute’s 10 week ‘We must be ready to manage that good fortune sensitively’ cited this State’s handling of the of our maritime heritage and flag officer, now Vice-Admiral Oceans of Learning series, for Corrib gas project as an example of our potential on the Atlantic Mark Mellett, became head of the final week’s topic on ‘One of “how not to undertake a margin. the Defence Forces. Shared Ocean, One Shared panoply of individuals with The impact of colonisation, of riches, and a superb national development”. By Lorna Siggins Irish connections who have including deliberate efforts to challenge”. The methodology known distinguished themselves over suppress the Irish fishing fleet The fact that this potential had as ‘Global Risk and Strategic hen Dr Kathy Sullivan many centuries in the marine when it became too competitive, not been realised was not due Assessment Planning’ (GRASP) (68) climbed out of a sphere, be it in fishing or trade, or were among reasons given by Dr to “genetics” or “laziness”, but developed by British chartered Wtiny submersible which in foreign navies, in exploration, de Courcy Ireland during a debate due in part to economics and the surveyor Michael Ocock, had returned from the bottom of or in technology and innovation. on this question at a conference “horrendously expensive” costs organisational psychologist Prof the Mariana Trench, none of the The lives of many of these on “Ireland the Sea”. It was of certain maritime development, Agi Oldfield and colleagues aims subsequent headlines were quite mostly male marine pioneers— hosted by the Merriman Summer Keating said. However, there to avoid selective consultation as clever as that “most vertical from St Brendan to submarine School and Bord Iascaigh Mhara was also a confidence factor, he or a domination of debates girl in the world” slogan coined designer John Philip Holland and in Co Clare back in 1983. argued; we were only beginning by “rogue stakeholders” and by several of her friends. explorers Sir Ernest Shackleton I came across the paperback to recover from a “profound the “space shuttle syndrome” It inspired a badge which she and Edward Bransfield—have record of that debate, and it was culture shock” which was “not identified in large scale projects now wears – the first female US been documented by late a welcome distraction during a unique to us”. which have taken a wrong turn. astronaut to walk in space and to maritime historian Dr John de brief “COVID-19 lockdown” The colonial experience Scottish islanders have also reach the deepest known point Courcy Ireland among others. He office tidy. Conference participant had touched “everywhere in taught us that sustainability is not of the world’s oceans has a sharp was often asked by colleagues and founding Irish Skipper editor the world where people were about ticking consultation boxes, sense of humour. Some might say at international conferences Arthur Reynolds pointed to defeated by newer and superior but about genuine stakeholder with her Irish lineage that she’d to explain why so many Irish the uneconomic reality of 900 technology, from South-East Asia engagement and community have to have – she has cousins mariners of note had to go abroad different landing points around to the homelands of the North return. on West Cork’s beautiful Beara to make their name. the coast. The fertility of this American Indians,” Keating said. Like the tide coming in and out Peninsula. These academics were curious island’s soil always made He outlined one First Nation twice a day, the sea still throws up Former Marine Institute chief to know why there was not much agriculture a more attractive bet, response to this shock – the endless opportunities for change – executive Dr Peter Heffernan more lasting “Viking influence” he said. “ghost dance”, and suggested seaweed culture as one example, wisely developed that link in Irish socio-economic activity, Labour Party politician Justin the Irish version of this was which the late British scientist through initiatives like the given that Ireland’s coastal state Keating, a vet and RTÉ Head of our “fascination with words Dr Eric Edwards once forecast Atlantic Ocean Research Alliance population was not dissimilar in Agricultural Programmes, posed a and music… based on their use would be far more lucrative for when Dr Sullivan was US size to that of Norway. The “real more complex answer. During his in a magic sense, for altering Ireland than salmon farming. Under Secretary of Commerce map of Ireland” is at least ten time as industry and commerce consciousness and for making Fascinating work by the Bantry for Oceans and Atmosphere times the land size, as that clever minister almost a decade earlier, reality go away…”. Marine Research Station in west and National Oceanic and Marine Institute postcard image he had attempted to set up a Magic being illusionary, the Cork is exploring how a type of Atmospheric Association depicts, and our continental shelf “Statoil” model for hydrocarbon only possible “national therapy” red seaweed could also reduce The ‘Real Map of Ireland’ is at least (NOAA) administrator. position on a northerly latitude is development here. He noted was development of our marine methane emissions in cattle – a ten times the land size. Dr Sullivan—an oceanographer tempered by the influence of the that the sea provided this State potential, in his view. Without valuable case, if realised, of “blue (Courtesy of the Marine Institute) and geologist—joins that Gulf Stream. with “almost an embarrassment mobilisation of capital—which meets green”.

ten times the land size (Courtesy of The ‘Real Map of Ireland’ is at least the Marine Institute). 32 News SEPTEMBER 2020 The Skipper The Skipper SEPTEMBER 2020 CREW SHOTS News 33

Risks and opportunities Broken Down Vessel for demersal fisheries You tear them and in warming seas towed to Safety by he’ll mend them Donaghadee Lifeboat More black sole, less monk and megs

Sowenna passing Calf Rock on her The lifeboat was tasked to assist a way out to sea. (Credit: Alan O’Shea) 15m vessel with one person onboard

however, the outlook for this species consequently see traditional species And not just people who fish. With onaghadee lifeboat were tasked be for the lifeboat to return when the By Lia ní Aodha was more uncertain. become choke species, and in turn, changing catches, consumers onshore at 2.44am on Tuesday 18 tide had risen. For John dory and red mullet, work to restrict other catches of will also have a role to play and DAugust by Belfast Coastguard After a couple of hours sleep, projected increases and expansions species that are still abundant or, may need to adapt their diets to eat to come to the assistance of a 15m the lifeboat crew relaunched at 8.00am dding to the already existing across the region continue a trend potentially, even increasing. species that could benefit under future fishing boat with one person on board. and in similar conditions made work that shows how climate that has been documented since the Navigating this tightrope will warming. (Maybe we will see people The vessel, which was on passage their way back to the fishing boat at change has affected marine mid–1990s within the North Sea and require increasingly flexible and deep frying black sole and eating it from Ardglass to Mallaig in Scotland, Templepatrick, and the crew managed A Celtic Sea. adaptive management approaches – with chips after all..?) ran into mechanical difficulties in the to establish a tow while the salvage fish populations and their associated fisheries, new research was published The decreasing projections for approaches which the researchers say Lead author Dr Katherine Maltby, early hours of the morning and drifted pump removed any excess water, and last month (August) investigating monk, cod and megs, say the authors, will be crucial to allow those fishing who undertook the research while at ashore at Templepatrick, just south of the boat was towed off the rocks stern the potential future effects of climate appear highly likely given the adapt to future changes. Cefas, said, “Our results show that Ballyvester beach. first. The towrope was then transferred change on several commercially majority of their climate projections The ‘on-the-ground’ experiences climate change will continue to affect The RNLI all weather lifeboat to the bow of the vessel, and an important fish stocks in the Celtic indicate declines. These findings of people who fish should be fish stocks within this sea region into Saxon was launched at 3.00am and in assessment was made to ensure there Sea, English Channel and southern are also in line with existing work incorporated with scientific the future, presenting both potential flat calm sea conditions and driving was no damage to the hull. North Sea, and fished by a number of suggesting a northward shift and/ information to inform future risks but some opportunities that rain made full speed to be on scene in Saxon then proceeded a slow tow to countries including Ireland, the UK, or deepening of these species in management decisions and facilitate fishers will likely have to adapt to. less than 10 minutes. As the stricken Bangor. While waiting permission to France and Holland. response to warming. this balance, they say. “Consumers can help fishers vessel was so far inshore with a enter the harbour, the lifeboat mechanic Waters in these regions have These projected changes in One of the study’s co-authors, take advantage of these fishing falling tide, the daughter lifeboat was was transferred aboard and was able to already experienced significant abundance and distribution will University of Exeter’s Louise opportunities by seeking out other launched also. On assessment, it was assess the mechanical difficulties and warming over the past 40 years. mean that fishermen and women Rutterford said, “We know from fish species to eat and enjoy.” decided they should attempt a tow, restart the fishing boats engine. And with further increases in sea will very likely have to adapt to working with fishers that warmer The paper, entitled ‘Projected however, due to tidal conditions this After discussions with the skipper Ex-skipper Alastair McBride with Edwin Murnaghan. A vital temperatures expected over the changes in catching opportunities and water species are appearing in impacts of warming seas on was ultimately unsuccessful. After and the coastguard, agreement was cog in Kilkeel’s fishing industry, and still busy mending nets, on coming decades, projecting future compositions in the coming decades catches more. Bringing together their commercially fished species at a liaising with Belfast Coastguard and made that the vessel, now being under July 30th Alastair celebrated his 79th birthday. Happy Birthday changes may help prepare the fishing On the one hand, they could see ‘on-the-ground’ experiences with biogeographic boundary of the the boat’s skipper, the decision was its own power, was able to proceed Alastair! (Credit: Leslie Campbell). industry and the systems that manage fishing opportunities for traditional studies like ours will help inform European continental shelf’ was made that the best plan of action would onwards to Mallaig. those fisheries for the resulting species diminished. On the other, future management decisions that published in the Journal of Applied effects, say the authors. they may provide new fishing enable sustainable exploitation while Ecology. It can be found at: https:// Carried out by researchers from the opportunities and see effort spread supporting fishers’ adaptation.” bit.ly/3iq0USV University of Exeter, University of more widely. John Paul Baska, crewman of Channel Bristol, the Centre for Environment, As people who fish know all Venture II with The Skipper’s Sharon Fisheries and Aquaculture Science too well, however, whether or not CREW SHOTS Boyle on the pier in Burtonport. (Cefas) and the Met Office Hadley these opportunities can be realised Centre, the study indicates changes will depend on a number of factors, he global pandemic has been in the availability and catchability including their capacity to modify especially hard on the fishing of several species over the fishing practices, consumer demand industry. To celebrate those who fish coming decades which could have and markets. T & their resilience we’ve been asking you Management, of course, will implications for fishing, fisheries to send in your crew shots to us at The management, and future fish diets. also be an important factor in all Estimating changes in abundance this. And these changes, say the Skipper. Here is just one of the great shots through the rest of the twenty first researchers, are likely to challenge we’ve received over the past month from century under a range of climate current management systems with around the coast. scenarios, eight demersal fish implications for decisions on future If you have a great crew shot you would species—monkfish, Atlantic cod, fishing mortality rates, effort and like to send in, whether you’re tied up or black sole, European plaice, John allowable catches. fishing, working inshore or offshore, you dory, lemon sole, megrim, and In terms of ensuring long-term can email us at: [email protected] red mullet—were chosen by the sustainability, future management will The best picture(s) each month will be authors based on prior assessment need to balance facilitating industry featured in The Skipper, with the best adaptation and access for fishermen, of landing statistics and their social overall picture featuring on the cover of and economic importance to fisheries while also setting catching levels within the region. that reduce climate impacts on fish the October issue of The Skipper. To be in Good news for some, bad for species, say the researchers. with a chance all you have to do is make others, their projections suggest Here, the multispecies nature of sure to send in the original hi-res version increases in abundance of warm- many of the fisheries in the region, of the image and email it to us rather than adapted species red mullet, black whereby several species are caught sending via social media. sole, John dory and lemon sole, and at the same time with the same gear, Please make sure you include names of decreases in abundance of cold- could pose challenges. everyone in the photo (from left to right), adapted species cod, monk and For example, management may Figure 1: Projected changes in an index of abundance (4th rooted CPUE) what you are fishing, the boat, the home megrim. Projections for plaice were impose reduced fishing mortality from 2000s until 2080s for all species. Each coloured line represents a port and the location of the shot (if not the relatively stable across all scenarios rates on species experiencing particular projection, with black lines representing the mean across several up until the 2040s – beyond this, localised declines, which could projections. home port).

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Ardglass prawn trawler, skipper & crew circa 1935 (masquerading as Donegal fishing girls). Image courtesy of Dick James

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Frank Doherty’s MVF Oilean Croine

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Ryan Polson and Josie Sandison – The next generation of fishermen back from setting creels and catching a few mackerel (Credit: Magnus Polson).

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Irish tuna boats return with August Tie-Up Scheme their first landings of Albacore Sees Extremely Low Uptake into Castletownbere this year (Images: Niall Duffy) objective of matching current By Lia ní Aodha supply and demand, the scheme will do the reverse with very little voluntary uptake as almost all ptake of the Department’s vessels will continue to fish thus COVID-19 Tie-Up making an already over supplied UScheme for the fleet was market worse,” he said. extremely low for August, with Similar sentiments figures from Bord Iascaigh Mhara were expressed by inshore (BIM), who are administering the representatives who said that on scheme, showing that only five the back of the supports being boats participated in the scheme offered many inshore vessels in its last month. would not be able to afford to tie According to those figures, just up, and would have no option but ten applications were received for to stay fishing. the August scheme in total, half A statement in response of which were closed (i.e. deemed from the then Minister said ineligible) for various reasons. the Government’s “primary In terms of a breakdown, of objective” was “to maintain those that were deemed eligible, fishing activity, to ensure critical one vessel was over 24 metres, food supply lines to the domestic four were under ten metres. Of and European markets.” the five that were turned down, “The temporary tie up scheme three were vessels less than 12 is simply designed as a safety metres in length, two these were net scheme to provide a further under ten metres. option to fishermen who choose Earlier figures from BIM not to continue fishing. It is not indicate 107 applications were designed as a replacement for received for the July scheme, viable fishing activity, wherever with 63 deemed eligible. 104 those possibilities exist,” he said. applications were received “It would be a positive sign if Skipper Johnny Walsh, landing tuna off the Rachel Jay in June, with 65 ultimately the take-up of this supplementary approved. scheme is low and that the safety Mired in controversy from the net provided through the scheme start, under the temporary scheme is used only by the minimum which was announced by then number of vessels”. Minister for Agriculture, Food and Three months on (and sales the Marine, Michael Creed last notes controversy aside), it looks May, vessels could voluntarily tie like Ireland’s fishermen and up for one or two of three months, women, by and large, ‘chose’ operational from June 1st and to stay fishing. Viable or not is running through August. another question. Supports under the scheme, Fishermen around the coast supposed to support fixed costs, are still citing extremely difficult would range from €6,000 to market conditions, and market €500 per month, depending on a reports back their experiences up. vessel’s length. “In these unique Turnovers are down more than and unprecedented circumstances, 50%, they say. Crab prices are on it is useful to give the fishing the floor. Bord Bia says frozen fleet another option to help prawn exports for the first half of Tuna boats return to Castletownbere match supply with demand in this year are down 37% compared the seafood markets,” said the to last, 50% down to Italy. Minister. But with several of the The level of supports being Government’s horizontal offered, however, quickly met measures effectively closed with sharp criticism from the to them on account of various industry. Killybegs Fishermen’s criteria and a scheme that, by Organisation Chief Executive, many accounts, was “designed to Seán O’Donoghue said it was fail”… is it any wonder Ireland’s "completely unfit for purpose." fishermen and women have stayed “Instead of achieving the key fishing?

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SAVE THE DATE ISSN 2009−3489 MARCH 2021 09 FRIDAY/SATURDAY 12th-13 th @ UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK YOUR INDUSTRY YOUR SHOW John Nolan (Castletownbere Fishermen's Co-op) and Michael Meade (Buddy M) survey the first landings WWW.THESKIPPER.IE 9 772009 348025