Regional Inshore Fisheries Forums seek members

BIM, Ireland’s sea-fisheries development agency, is seeking members to participate in Regional Inshore Fisheries Forums that will feed into the National Inshore Fisheries Forum established in June.

John Hickey, BIM, working with inshore lobster fishermen

Each RIFF will be linked to one of six nationwide Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) and will comprise a total of 12 members, eight of whom will represent inshore fisheries. The balance of the membership will include stakeholders from marine sectors other than fisheries (e.g. seafood processing/sales, marine leisure, marine tourism, environmental NGOs and community organisations.)

 Applicants must demonstrate support within their respective sector, and appointment will be based on:

• ability to represent the views of the inshore sector

• knowledge of inshore fisheries, fish stocks and fishing methods, and

• capacity to engage on fisheries management issues

FLAGs will also aim to ensure that membership is representative of their regional geographical coverage and the characteristics of the region’s inshore fleet and fisheries. Should a FLAG consider a sector or area is lacking in representation, the FLAG reserves the right to approach appropriate individuals or organisations to seek members.

Further details from Caroline Curraoin ([email protected]) or send your application by post to: FLAG Co-ordinator, BIM, , P.O. Box 12, Crofton Rd., Dun Laoghaire , Co. Dublin.

Full details on the terms of reference for the National Inshore Fisheries Forum are available on www.bim.ie The closing date for all applications is Friday August 29, 2014.