New fisheries agreements with Norway and the Faroe Islands significantly reduce mackerel fishing pressure, promoting sustainable practices.
Introduction
The UK has secured groundbreaking fisheries agreements with Norway and the Faroe Islands. These deals, focusing on the North-East Atlantic mackerel, aim to reduce fishing pressure and ensure the long-term sustainability of this valuable stock. The agreements include new quota-sharing arrangements and cooperative management strategies.
A New Era for Mackerel Fishing
Overview of the Agreements
The UK’s recent fisheries agreements with Norway and the Faroe Islands mark a significant step towards sustainable fishing practices. These agreements, effective from 2024, address the pressing need to manage the North-East Atlantic mackerel stock more sustainably. With a Total Allowable Catch (TAC) set at 770,037 tonnes, both the UK and Norway have committed to reducing overfishing and preserving marine ecosystems.
Key Details of the Agreements
Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and Quota Shares:
- TAC for 2024: 770,037 tonnes.
- Norway’s Share: 28.51% (219,500 tonnes).
- UK’s Share: 28.43% (218,900 tonnes).
The agreed TAC follows scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) and aligns with the long-term management strategy for sustainable fishing levels.
Quota Shares and Transfers for 2024
Country |
Mackerel Quota (tonnes) |
Transferred to UK (tonnes) |
Transferred to Norway (tonnes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norway | 219,500 | 4,000 | 0 |
| UK | 218,900 | 0 | 1,000 |
Cooperation and Management Strategy
The UK and Norway have pledged to continue their cooperation on the long-term management strategy for the mackerel stock. This includes setting sustainable fishing mortality rate targets and coordinating monitoring, control, and enforcement activities.
Long-Term Benefits and Sustainable Fishing Practices
Three-Year Arrangement
A key component of these agreements is the three-year arrangement (2024-2026), which involves setting annual TACs based on a new long-term management strategy. This arrangement is not only between the UK, Norway, and the Faroe Islands but also includes wider negotiations with other coastal states such as the EU, Iceland, and Greenland.
The goal is to finalize a permanent, comprehensive sharing arrangement by early 2024, demonstrating a collective commitment to the sustainable management of the North-East Atlantic mackerel stock.
Sustainability and Science-Based Management
These agreements highlight the UK and Norway’s dedication to science-based fisheries management. By adhering to ICES recommendations and establishing cooperative management strategies, both countries aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of mackerel stocks. This approach is crucial for preserving the marine environment and supporting the fishing communities that depend on it.
Impact on the UK Fishing Industry
The new arrangements are expected to provide significant benefits to the UK fishing industry. By securing a substantial share of the mackerel quota and ensuring access to sustainable fishing practices, the UK can enhance its fishing industry’s economic stability and long-term viability. The agreements also underline the UK’s leadership in promoting sustainable fisheries management on the international stage.
Food for Thought
The UK’s new fisheries agreements with Norway and the Faroe Islands represent a major milestone in the sustainable management of North-East Atlantic mackerel. By significantly reducing fishing pressure and establishing robust quota-sharing and management strategies, these agreements set a new standard for international fisheries cooperation.
The long-term benefits for the UK fishing industry and marine ecosystems are substantial, ensuring that mackerel fishing remains viable and sustainable for future generations.
These historic agreements reflect the UK’s commitment to preserving marine resources and leading global efforts in sustainable fisheries management. As the agreements take effect in 2024, they promise to bring about a new era of responsible and science-based mackerel fishing.
Sources: THX News & Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
