Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s seafood development agency, is inviting all <10 metre fishing vessel operators to complete its annual National Seafood Survey. More than 1500 vessels in Ireland fall under the 10-metre size category according to the sea fishing register.
The inclusion of their data in the survey will provide a more accurate account of inshore fisheries’ contribution and economic resource in coastal communities throughout Ireland to National and EU Policy makers.
Survey questions cover areas such as economic, employment and operational details based on previous years’ activities. Previously, only active fishing vessels over ten metres were asked to complete the survey. BIM has worked with the National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF) and the National Inshore Fisheries Association (NIFA) to improve the survey and capture the questions in the best way possible.
‘If the inshore sector wants to be taken seriously once and for all they must be able to prove their worth. By filling out the National Seafood Survey as best they can we can start the process of showing the country what we really are worth and in turn use the information provided to help benefit the inshore sector,’ said NIFF member John Menarry.
The survey data will be shared in an aggregated form to provide advice on the inshore sector to national agencies and the EU. Providing the economic information requested is also of particular importance to every fisherman in Ireland, due to the fact that the EU sees economic data as a critical and necessary component in the development of long-term management plans for the majority of stocks targeted by the Irish fleet.
The survey is being posted to every active fishing vessel owner on the register and includes a freepost envelope for return. Completed survey forms should be returned by Friday the 15th January 2021.
