For the 44th Consecutive year the UK Shellfish Industry will gather for the Annual Shellfish Association of Great Britain Conference being held over two days on 21st and 22nd May at Fishmongers’ Hall, London.
This will provide an opportunity to reflect on progress made over the last year and to establish priorities for the journey ahead.
There is a lot going on in the Industry at present – from the review of major legislation such as the Shellfish Waters Directive, Water Framework Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive to the development of the English Aquaculture Strategy and the consultation on the proposed network of MCZs. Meanwhile, the overarching CFP reform and its associated negotiations continue to take place which will undoubtedly affect us all.
The Association’s discussions with the various government bodies continue on important topics such as Marine Protected Areas, crab management, the status of gigas oysters and water quality in the guise of norovirus and the classification of shellfish harvesting waters.
It is an exciting time to be in the industry but with the increasing legislation and financial constraints facing the industry, the role of the SAGB and the representation it presents is more vital than ever.
To show their support and to discuss these issues, challenges and opportunities facing the UK Shellfish Industry, an impressive array of speakers have agreed to take part, with the keynote speech (it is hoped) to be given by European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki.
Amongst others, topics covered by presentations this year will be the Blue Marine Foundation work with fishermen in Lyme Bay, Offshore Aquaculture, the new role of the IFCAs, Water Companies working with industry, protected name status for shellfish (PGI, PGO), the Chinese Mitten Crab and analysis of shellfish stock assessments (nephrops).
The conference will be of great value to all sectors of the industry, with approximately 150 fishermen, cultivators, regulators, decision-makers, and environmental organisations expected to be present.
SAGB Conference
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