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Fishermen in Cornwall are poised to be the first to take advantage of additional post-Brexit fishing quotas through newly announced trial programs by the government.
This community initiative will provide local fishers access to an extra 240 tonnes of quota, available for lease at rates lower than the market average, prioritizing new entrants to the industry and those aiming to operate larger fishing vessels.
Implemented by the Cornish Fish Producer Organisation, Duchy Fish Quota Company, and Cornwall Council, this trial will focus on various fish stocks, including cod, plaice, skate, rays, and sole. Revenue generated from the quotas will be reinvested into the program to support participating fishers with training in project management, monitoring, reporting, and marketing initiatives.
Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer remarked:
The launch of these two new trial initiatives marks another significant milestone for UK fishers to experience the advantages of our post-Brexit opportunities and to utilize this additional quota effectively.
These trials will play a crucial role in guiding our future quota allocation, ensuring essential support for a sustainable and prosperous fishing sector.”
Chris Ranford, CEO of the Cornish Fish Producer Organisation, stated:
The CFPO welcomes the initiation of the Cornwall Community Quota trial. Distributing additional quota at a regional level to benefit active fishermen and coastal communities aligns with the Cornish Fishing Strategy, and we are eager to implement this innovative approach.
The CFPO’s expertise will ensure the proper management of the additional quota in a fair and just manner, taking into account the needs of varied fisheries, seasonal fluctuations, market trends, innovative practices, and the eventual economic boost to coastal communities.
A second initiative will introduce a newly established Quota Application Mechanism (QAM), inviting producer organizations with English members to apply directly for a portion of the post-Brexit quota. These organizations will present their proposals for utilizing the additional quota, which will be assessed based on environmental, economic, and social factors. The applications with the highest scores will be granted quota allocations.
Future work stemming from this trial is set to continue into 2025 and beyond, with a focus on enhancing the sustainability of the UK’s fishing stocks and serving the broader interests of fishers.
Applications for the Cornwall Community Quota Scheme are anticipated to open shortly.
The application process for the QAM trial is expected to commence this June, with plans to allocate quota by late summer.
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Elena Rossi is a graduate of the University of Hohenheim in Germany, where she earned her degree in Agricultural Economics. Her coursework centered on farm management, agricultural policy, and rural development. Elena is dedicated to enhancing the economic viability of small farms and works as a policy analyst, advising on agricultural economics and food security issues in Europe.
