Pilot quota balancing for whitefish stocks is delayed

A quota balancing scheme for Ireland’s key whitefish stocks due to commence on January 1 has been delayed until June 1. The current economic impact has had a “significant impact” on the seafood sector and has been “particularly challenging” for vessels in the demersal (whitefish) fleet.

Postponing the scheme, marine minister Michael Creed said the additional time would allow the sector to become familiar with the process and to “adapt in these unprecedented times”.

Statements for the months of January to May will be issued to licence holders for information purposes only.

Catch limits 

Quota balancing means that where a vessel lands more than its allocated catch limit for a stock during a fishery management period, a deduction will be made from its future catch limit.

A multiplying factor will also apply to the excess landings. Where a vessel lands more than 10% over their catch limit, a higher level of payback will apply.

Quota balancing is separate to any action by may be taken by the control authorities.

The policy was developed at the request and assistance of the Quota Management Advisory Committee who make recommendations on the management of Irish fish quotas. It comprises fishing industry representatives from the catching and processing sectors.

From June, quota balancing will apply to:

  • Haddock, VIa (HAD/5BC6A)
  • Hake in VI and VII (HKE/571214)
  • Monk VI (ANF/56-14)
  • Whiting VIIb-k (WHG/(7X&A)7X7A-C

Quota balancing will be rolled out for other whitefish stocks at a later time. A pilot scheme for pelagic stocks was introduced on January 1, 2018 and is ongoing.

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