As the North Western Waters Advisory Council (NWWAC) enters its 20th year of business, it is pleased to announce the launch of its ambitious and forward-looking work programme for 2024-2025.

This comprehensive plan sets out the strategic priorities and initiatives to promote sustainable management of fisheries in the northwest waters. Guided by sound science and stakeholder engagement, the themes and initiatives underscore the Advisory Board’s commitment to helping maintain a sustainable fisheries sector and a thriving marine ecosystem.

Highlights of the work programme:

1. The evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP): NWWAC continues to critically assess the implementation and results of the CFP, ensuring that its objectives are consistent with sustainable fishing practices and the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities. Our aim is to contribute to the design of effective and adaptive policies.
2. This is how the landing obligation works: The focus of the efforts will be on the effective implementation of the landing obligation with the aim of minimising discards and supporting the sector, while identifying where improvements are needed.
3. Innovative technical measures: The Fisheries Committee continues its work to promote technical measures that increase selectivity, reduce bycatch and improve the overall sustainability of fisheries operations.
4. Sustainable management of non-quota species: Particular attention will be paid to non-quota species such as scallops, sea bass and edible crabs. Their sustainable management will be ensured through targeted measures and stakeholder involvement, including in cooperation with UK stakeholders.
5. Annual insights into fishing opportunities: A core function of the NWWAC remains the provision of annual recommendations on fishing opportunities based on scientific advice from ICES.
6. Dealing with the impact of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA): NWWAC closely monitors and addresses the impacts of the EU-UK TCA on fisheries management and industry operations and promotes cooperation and adaptation strategies.
7. Ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management: With projects such as SEAwise and Mission Atlantic, the AC represents an ecosystem-based approach that takes into account the complex interactions within the marine environment and thus ensures holistic and sustainable management.
8. Policy coherence between fisheries and the environment: Competition for use in the marine environment continues to increase. The AC is particularly concerned with the impacts of the implementation of the Nature Restoration Act And the Marine Strategy Framework Directive on the fisheries sector, the marine environment and the use of maritime space.
9. Smart spatial planning and marine protected areas (MPAs): The AC continuously addresses spatial issues related to offshore renewable energy installations and the designation and management of marine protected areas in order to reconcile environmental protection measures and objectives with socio-economic aspects.
10. Strengthening the social aspects of fishing: The AC continues to focus on the socio-economic aspects of fisheries, including the livelihoods of fishing communities, working conditions and the cultural heritage of coastal regions.
11. Control and compliance: The AC monitors the implementation of the new Control Regulation to ensure fair, transparent and sustainable fishing practices.

The North Western Waters Advisory Council invites all stakeholders to join us on this exciting journey. Our 20th year work programme is not just a plan – it is a commitment to innovation, sustainability and collaboration. Together we can ensure the prosperity and health of the North Western Waters for present and future generations.

Would you like to help make these goals a reality?

e-mail (email protected) and ask about membership in the NWWAC!

Source: Press release