Defra has released some useful links for the information all involved in the seafood/fisheries industry in the preparation for EU Exit. Please take the opportunity to make yourself familiar with the following information: –

Preparing for EU Exit

Latest information for the fisheries sector on preparing for EU Exit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-fisheries-sector-and-preparing-for-eu-exit

IMO Numbers

In certain circumstances after Brexit, UK boats will be required to be registered with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). For details on how to apply for an IMO number, which is free, see: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/fishermen-urged-to-be-brexit-ready-by-registering-with-the-imo. 

Export and Imports of Fish with EU

To export wild-caught marine fish to the EU if there’s a NO DEAL Brexit, you’ll need:

• a catch certificate
• an export health certificate, except for direct landings in EU ports from UK-flagged fishing vessels

A fuller list of what may be needed to export fish, as well as information on importing fish to the UK from the EU, can also be viewed on the pages below:

• The latest guidance on Catch Certificates can be viewed at gov.uk/brexit-import-export-fish.
• The latest guidance on Export Health Certificates can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/exporting-animals-animal-products-fish-and-fishery-products-to-the-eu-after-eu-exit

The Officers and Members of NIFCA were very sorry to learn of the recent passing of our former member Councillor Bernard Pidcock, who contributed a great deal to the work of this Authority and was very well liked and respected. Our sympathies and best wishes go to Bernard’s family and friends.

Please see below Press Release by the Association of IFCAs relating to the above.

Press release for Reception at the House of Commons on 12 February 2019

Please see the links below to view Defra’s three new guidance documents in case of a No Deal Brexit

190116 Agriculture and food (English)

190116 Hauliers (English)

190116 Retail (English)

Northumberland IFCA is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Andrew Boon in the role of Research Officer as part of its North of Tyne Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) funded project to assess the brown crab stocks within the NIFCA District. The project will aim to enhance and develop the existing understanding held by NIFCA surrounding the brown crab fishery. The commercial importance and long-established nature of the brown crab fishery in the NIFCA district highlights the significance of this project. Andrew will be working closely with local fishing vessels and fishers throughout the district and in southern Scotland, recording all relevant aspects of the catches of brown crab for each vessel whilst at sea. The data collected during these surveys will assist with NIFCA’s plans and future management of the fishery to achieve its long-term sustainability, to the benefit of the local fishing industry as well as the marine environment.

With a master’s degree in Marine Science and a wealth of experience working as an Environmental and Scientific Officer with North Eastern IFCA (between the River Tyne and the Humber), Andrew said “I see this project as a fantastic opportunity to build upon the existing knowledge regarding the health and sustainability of the local brown crab fishery and I look forward to working closely with the local industry, whose experience and knowledge will be vital to the success of this project. It’s also a great opportunity to work alongside the North of Tyne FLAG and continue their valued work supporting the local fishing industry”.

DEFRA ARE RECRUITING.

They would like to hear from people with experience in international and national negotiations and an interest in working with diverse groups of stakeholders. They have said:

“We are looking for people to support a range of activities as we prepare to leave the EU. The Marine and Fisheries team are working to ensure our seas are cleaner, healthier, safer, more productive and biologically diverse. This means protecting and improving the marine environment, both in the UK and internationally, and managing our diverse range of fisheries sustainably. This is a unique and exciting time to be part of Marine and Fisheries. Defra are seeking a wide range of people who have, for example, knowledge of the fishing industry and/or marine environment; experience in international and national negotiations and of working with diverse groups of stakeholders; or who can be innovative in implementing new policies and forging new partnerships. Follow the links below to find out more and to apply. Email Defra at FishEUExit@defra.gov.uk for more information.”

POSITIONS:

HEO posts (Search reference 1615503): https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?jcode=1615503

SEO posts (Search reference 1615501): https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?jcode=1615501

G7 posts (Search reference 1615500): https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?jcode=1615500

G6 posts (Search reference 1615497): https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?jcode=1615497