The Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries aims to review the way the Barents Sea capelin fishery is managed, and this move has been welcomed by industry associations.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries states that the capelin fishery has developed in recent years, and Fisheries and Oceans Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss has said that the government needs to the build a wider knowledge base before it can make changes.
The background for the review is that for some years fishing has been perceived as unpredictable for the fleet and the industry.
‘It’s very good that this is coming,’ said Espen Jacobsen, a departmental head at fishing vessel operators’ association Fiskebåt.
‘Fiskebåt has been lobbying for a better and more predictable regulation of the coastal fleet’s capelin fishing in the Barents Sea. The system of drawing lots, among other things, means it has become difficult for the fleet to plan and carry out major investments. We are pleased that the Minister of Fisheries has now asked the Directorate of Fisheries to look into this.’
‘This is an issue that we at the Fishermen’s Association and our member associations have been clear about over time. It is high time for greater visibility,’ said Kåre Heggebø of the Norwegian Fishermen’s Association, commenting that the drawing of lots for participation in the fishery has made it difficult to plan ahead and make necessary investments.
‘At the Norwegian Fishermen’s Association will arrange for experience from all parts of the organisation to be made available to help ensure that our authorities are not left without advice from us when decisions are made in this important fishery.’
Espen Jacobsen pointed out that the Ministry of Trade and Fisheries has not laid down any guidelines for the Directorate of Fisheries’ review of the regulation, and it is uncertain what the outcome of the process will be.
The Ministry states that if this process ends with a decision being made to limit participation in the fishery, there will be a 16th September cut-off date. Activity, agreements on investments that are entered into after the cut-off date, will not form the basis for future participation.
Image: Institute of Marine Research
