10.01.03      
South West fishing industry Objective One grant

A major survey of the fishing industry is underway in the South West. Ekos Consulting in association with Nautilus Consultants have been commissioned by the South West Regional Development Agency to compile a socio-economic analysis of the south west fishing industry. The study will then assist the development of a strategy to support the fishing industry.

The study has received grants from the Objective One, Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance programme, facilitated by South West Pesca Ltd and also the South West RDA.

The consultants will be gathering information from all over the South West to establish how many vessels are in use, the amounts of fish caught and information about fishing communities.

The survey will calculate the value of the industry in the region. Present estimates are that 7,000 jobs are directly and indirectly supported by the fishing industry. The report is due by the end of the month.

Ian Piper, head of regeneration at the South West Regional Development Agency, said: “We appreciate the contribution that the fishing industry makes within parts of the South West region, and how improtant it is for the sustainability of some of our coastal towns. We welcome the opportunity this survey will bring to understanding the extent and importance of the industry to the region.”

Clare Leverton, Objective One Fisheries Programme Manager stated: “Objective One has supported this analysis to provide us with the up to date information needed to develop a sustainable fishing industry by restructuring in the most effective way possible.”

Editor's notes:

For further information contact:

John Taynton, South West RDA on 01392 229567

Clare Leverton, Objective One Fisheries Programme Manager, South West Pesca on 01872 270333

Mark Greet, MD of FalFish and Member of study Steering Group on 01326 314664

Jason Clark
Communications Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Tel: 01872 241379
Fax: 01872 241388

jason@dclark.co.uk

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