Wales becomes first UK nation to mandate monitoring for fishing boats
Boats under 12 metres in length will have to carry monitoring systems
Wales has become the first country in the UK to mandate a monitoring system for commercial fishing boats in its waters.
Licensed boats over 12 metres in length have already had to have a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) installed.
But changes to legislation being brought today (February 15th) mean that boats under 12 metres also must carry the mechanism.
The system will provide regular location updates, as well as the speed and course of the boat trawling in Welsh waters.
In total, around 97% of the registered fishing fleet in Wales is measured as being under 12 metres of length.
The change in law is to help generate a more accurate picture of fishing levels around Wales, as well as Welsh fishing boats trawling elsewhere.
Over 98% of fishing boats in Wales already have the VMS installed on their boats, but those that have not had one fitted can do so for free.
The overall aim for the mandatory use of the VMS was to help manage the number of fish being caught and to help preserve the local environment.
Speaking about the initiative, Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths MS said she was proud of Wales setting the trend.
“I am pleased Wales is the first nation in the UK to require all commercial fishing vessels which operate in Wales or the Welsh Zone are fitted with a Vessel Monitoring System," she said.
“We want to help ensure a sustainable and prosperous fishing industry in Wales and this step will be fundamental to the effective management of fisheries and the wider marine environment.
“It will also provide the industry with evidence of their catch origin and fishing grounds which could be used to resolve any disputes with other marine users," she added.
“We have worked closely with the industry and have offered substantial funding via the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund to help prepare fishers for this new requirement.”