The NSAC proposes amendments to North Sea discard plan, supporting haddock exemptions and improved gear selectivity with T90 codends
The de minimis exemption, a provision allowing small amounts of undersized fish to be landed without penalties, is essential for managing bycatch in demersal fisheries. The NSAC supports maintaining this exemption for haddock, provided that vessels comply with strict criteria, including increased selectivity measures.
In the document, the NSAC notes:
“The exemption is vital for minimising waste at sea, as fully eliminating bycatch of haddock is not feasible despite efforts to improve selectivity.”
Research cited in the NSAC report highlights that T90 codends improve the escape of juvenile fish, making them a crucial part of sustainable fishing operations. However, there are concerns that some small, marketable fish may also escape, impacting profitability. The NSAC recommends voluntary use of the gear while additional studies are conducted.
The report advises against mandating T90 gear without further research, stating:
“Any compulsory requirement for T90 codends at this stage may result in unforeseen negative impacts on various fleet segments, especially without sufficient trials in diverse fishing grounds.”
French fisheries representatives have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of T90 codends in their waters and have requested experimental trials in ICES areas 3A and 4 before large-scale adoption.
The NSAC also called for more flexibility in gear regulations, suggesting that fishermen should have the option to use various selectivity-enhancing designs, including square mesh panels.
“A one-size-fits-all approach does not reflect the reality of different fisheries. Tailored solutions are necessary to achieve both selectivity and economic viability,” the report concludes.
Moving forward, the NSAC has urged the Scheveningen Group to maintain open dialogue with the fishing industry and to collaborate on refining sustainable fishing measures. The advisory council emphasised the importance of innovation in gear technology to reduce bycatch and improve compliance with the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
The proposed changes, including the haddock exemption and flexible gear options, are expected to play a key role in shaping the future management of North Sea fisheries.