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John Home Robertson announces engine power measures
11/11/1999
The introduction of changes to fishing vessel licensing arrangements will help tackle the problem of under-declaration of engine power, John Home Robertson said today.
The Deputy Minister for Rural Affairs - who has particular responsibility for fisheries issues - was explaining changes announced today by the Fisheries Departments in the UK. He said:
"The engine power measures are being introduced following lengthy and careful consideration. They are necessary to ensure fishermen comply with Community requirements and our domestic licensing rules and that legitimate fishing capacity is targeted at fish stocks. They are therefore essential and in the interests of sustainability and law-abiding fishermen.
"For those who need to regularise their position, we have however allowed time and special arrangements for the necessary measures to be taken. We have incorporated measures to help protect the smaller vessels in the fleet. We have also obtained assurances that our measures are consistent with European obligations; and that we will not be disadvantaged by any further measures that may be taken by the Community.
"I know the measures will cause problems for some fishermen. But we need to ensure that all fishermen respect fisheries management measures and that those who do so are not disadvantaged by the actions of others. The engine power measures we have announced are designed to achieve that objective fairly and effectively."
BACKGROUND
The Fisheries Departments in the UK have today announced changes to fishing vessel licensing arrangements, including measures to tackle the under-declaration of engine power. News release SE1264/99 refers.
News Release: SE1265/1999
11 Nov 1999