Full details of the scheme arrangements for 2010 are as follows:

• A minimum of 40 cod per hours fishing effort will indicate a high abundance.
• There will be a maximum level of 9 closures (plus 3 extra in the event of a positive sample) set at any one time. Closed Area (CA) will be a maximum of 50 square miles.
• Any closed area will be defined by a maximum of 6 points.
• There will be no closed areas within the 12 mile zone unless exceptional circumstances for doing so exist
• Each closure will be as a result of 1 positive sample (over 40 Cod per hour) or defined by landing per unit effort data when sampling is not possible
• Closures will last for a fixed period of 21 days after which the area will automatically re-open.
• In seeking to address commercial impact concerns raised by the industry we will introduce Commercial Impact Zones (CIZ). There can be no more than 3 closed areas within any CIZ.
• Commercial Impact Zones will be 25 miles in radius.
• A voluntary scheme with no enforcement action to be taken, other than loss of benefit gained from participation in the Conservation Credits Scheme.
• Other UK administrations and other member states will be advised of closures and vessels encouraged to observe them.
• Industry will be encouraged to notify the existence for information purposes where they have encountered high numbers of undersized cod. TEL: +44(0)131-271-9700, FAX: +44(0)131-244-6471 and Email: UKFCC@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
• Sampling will be undertaken by the SFPA and independent observers.
• FRS observers shall seek the permission of the vessel master before any notifications are made

No related posts.