The proposed updates to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Fisheries Standard have been published for public review. The updates include a strengthening of requirements on endangered, threatened and protected species, a total ban on shark finning, proposals to reduce ghost…
Last week, FN provided examples of two of the many vessels around the British Isles that have been unable to fish since inspection under the new Under-15m Code – vessels made by Island Plastics and Cheetah Marine. This week we…
Fishing News has been contacted by a wide range of small-boat skippers, across the UK, who are experiencing difficulties with getting their boats through the new MCA code, and the inspections required. Over the next few weeks, FN will strive…
Fishing News has been contacted by a wide range of small-boat skippers, across the UK, who are experiencing difficulties with getting their boats through the new MCA code, and the inspections required. Over the next few weeks, FN will strive to…
Experts contest new requirements Under the new MCA code for under-15m vessels, this boat – pictured above after rescuing the crew of an upturned yacht off the Isle of Wight – would be deemed to be unsafe, until it blocks…
The MCA has launched a consultation on changes to the Merchant Shipping Act that would give it a wider range of enforcement powers. They would include an increased capacity to impose fines for breaches of regulations, as an alternative to…
The MCA has launched a new 24/7 online self-service registry for emergency beacons such as the emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) and personal locator beacons (PLBs). The agency says the new digital portal will make it easier and more convenient…
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued a safety bulletin, following a number of near misses, accidents and a fatality, to remind owners, employers, skippers and crew of UK fishing vessels of their responsibilities during lifting operations. This bulletin…
The new Code of Practice for Small Fishing Vessels, due to come into force in the next few months, will include new stability requirements. The MCA survey team explain the implications for owners of vessels old and new. Since October…
Entry into enclosed spaces onboard vessels is sometimes necessary, but it is a dangerous activity. However, new regulations designed to reduce the danger could have impacts on the operations of fishing vessels. Any enclosed space deprived of regular and constant…
