“Conserving our Marine Environment and Inshore Fisheries”

Annual Report 2014 – 2015

Farewell to St. Oswald….

Northumberland Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority 8 Ennerdale Road Blyth Riverside Park Blyth Northumberland NE24 4RT Telephone: 01670 797676 Email: nifca@nifca.gov.uk Website: www.nifca.gov.uk

Fisheries in the district. Further details can be obtained from the Authority website or by enquiry to the Authority office.

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Glossary of relevant terms used in this Annual Report or of relevance to NIFCA remit AED - Automated External Defibrillators AIFCA - Association of IFCAs B&NNC SAC - Berwickshire & North Northumberland Coast Special Area of Conservation CEFAS - The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science CEO - Chief Executive Officer COG - Chief Officers Group DEFRA - Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs EA - Environment Agency EMS - European Marine Site EUNIS - European Nature Information System IFCO - Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer

iVMS - Inshore Vessel Monitoring System JNCC - Joint Nature Conservation Committee JWA - Joint Working Arrangement (in the district with the MMO, EA and NE) MCA - Maritime Coastguard Agency MaCAA - Marine & Coastal Access Act 2009 MCSS - Monitor and Control Surveillance System MCZ - Marine Conservation Zone

MEO - Marine Enforcement Officer MOU - Memorandum of Understanding MMO - Marine Management Organisation MPA - Marine Protected Areas MSC - Marine Stewardship Council NAREC - National Renewable Energy Centre NCC - Northumberland County Council NE - Natural England NEBOSH - National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health NIMEG - National Marine Enforcement Group

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NIFCA - Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority NSFC - Northumberland Sea Fisheries Committee NTMBC - North Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council PACE - Police and Criminal Evidence Act PPR - Professional Practices and Responsibilities RIB - Rigid Inflatable Boat RNLI - Royal National Lifeboat Institution RSA - Recreational Sea Angling RYA - Royal Yacht Association SAGB - Shellfish Association of Great Britain SAC - Special Areas of Conservation SEA - Strategic Environmental Assessment SPA - Special Protection Areas STCW - Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping RYA - Royal Yacht Association TAG - Technical Advisory Group

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Contents Page 1. Foreword and Introduction from the Chief Executive and Authority Chair 1 - 3 2. Vision, Success Criteria & High Level Objectives - NIFCA attainments 4 - 15 3. Local Targets and Priorities- NIFCA attainments 16 - 21 4. Work Plan Summary 22 5. Risk Management Strategy 22 6. Resources Report 23 7. Budget 23 8. Northumberland IFCA Budget Summary 2014 – 2015 24 9. Governance and Membership 25 - 26 10. Staffing and Service Standards 27 11. Training Summary 27 12. Strategic Review 27 Annex I Meetings and events attended by Representatives of the Authority in 2014 – 2015 28 - 36 Annex 2 Press Reports Summary 2014 – 2015 37 Annex 3 Training Summary 2014- 2015 38 Annex 4 Consultation Summary 2014 – 2015 39 Annex 5 Operations and Enforcement Summary 40 - 46

2014 – 2015

Notes

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Annual Report 2014 - 2015

1. Foreword

During 2014 - 15 NIFCA bid a number of fond farewells and welcomed a number of significant changes to the Authority. After 14 years as the Authority patrol vessel, our single hold steel craft St. Oswald was sold to GMD Automotive Limited trading as Forth Logistics Marine Services. and replaced by our new twin hold fibre glass catamaran “St. Aidan”. Built at Goodchild Marine in Great Yarmouth, St. Aidan is a SB Lynx 16m multi-purpose commercial catamaran with twin Cummins engines, a sprint speed of 23 knots and on-board Ribcraft 5.3m Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) with a top speed of 30 knots. After over 19 years’ service as the Administrative Officer to NIFCA and our predecessor body Northumberland Sea Fisheries Committee, 2014 – 15 also saw the retirement of Pearl Richards, with thanks from the Committee Members and officers for her years of loyal and dedicated work to the benefit of Inshore Fisheries and Marine Environmental Management. Steps were underway during the year for recruitment of a replacement Administrative Officer. During 2014 – 15 Environmental IFCO Sarah Aftergood left the employment of the Authority to return to her native Canada and we were pleased to welcome in her place Environmental IFCO Sally Stewart-Moore, who had recently completed a Masters Degree in Marine Biology at Southampton University. Sally quickly settled into her role and together with our Patrol Vessel Skipper and IFCO Darren Graham, she attended the annual officers training course which is provided for all the IFCAs in Torquay and where CEO Mike Hardy is one of the tutors. 2014 – 15 also saw the continued implementation of our new EMS byelaws 16 and 17 protecting rocky reefs and sea grass in the Berwickshire and North Northumberland Coast special area of conservation and also the marine conservation zone in the Aln Estuary where the Authority developed its programme of fish survey work led by Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental) Jon Green. During 2014 – 15 we also continued with ground truthing and camera work in the B&NNC SAC, led by Deputy Chief IFCO (Operations) Mark Southerton and with Mark and the other IFCOs involved receiving appropriate training to enhance their skills and the plans for delivery of outputs in this area. The Authority also continued to expand our engagement with stakeholders and the community in our district in a number of ways – stakeholder meetings were held in the district, including in respect of the proposed (Tranche 2) Marine Conservation Zone from Coquet to St. Marys; engagement took place with recreational sea anglers, including Sea Angling Club visits to meet members and explain the work of the Authority; we continued to enhance our website and also began the use of Twitter and Facebook to engage with an increasing number of parties who are interested in the work of NIFCA. The foundation for all of this work is the excellent team of dedicated and highly skilled officers providing a wide range of outputs across the Authority remit; a supportive and knowledgeable committee of members; and sound financial governance using the resources granted to us primarily by the rate payers in our district through our constituent Local

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Authorities, Northumberland County Council and North Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council and also New Burdens Funding which is provided from Central Government by DEFRA. It is once again worth noting that our new patrol vessel St Aidan was funded entirely from the Authority’s own resources, without the need for a grant or loan funding and the foresight which enabled that to be done will continue to be key to the future strategy of the Authority in continuing to deliver upon our remit.

Robert Arckless Mike Hardy NIFCA Chair NIFCA CEO

Introduction

The year under review has seen some significant achievements for Northumberland IFCA. The Report to Parliament as specified in the Marine and Coastal Access Act has now been presented. The story for all IFCAs was a positive one but it was pleasing to see Northumberland’s achievements acknowledged in a national forum. It was also good to see the hard work of establishing the new IFCAs recognised and how the original objectives set for the IFCAs have been met and exceeded. As ever finance played an important part in Northumberland IFCAs deliberations: it was a relief to see the “new burdens” funding guaranteed in to the next Comprehensive Spending Review. There has been a lot of work behind the scenes to ensure a positive outcome to the Review process and we are grateful for the support of local MPs, MEPs and our constituent local authorities. All of us are very aware of the continuing pressures on public sector spending: for Northumberland IFCA that has meant keeping a close eye on expenditure while absorbing increasing workloads and seeking ways to work in partnership with others to maximise the effectiveness of our IFCA. One of the highlights of this year has been the completion of our new Patrol vessel Saint Aidan.

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The replacement of Saint Oswald is the culmination of years of planning. The new vessel is smaller, faster, more efficient and will allow Northumberland IFCA to fulfil its remit for years ahead. The sale of the old vessel means we have a good start in funding the next one. Whatever financial storms lie in the future Northumberland IFCA will be in the best possible position to sustain a major expenditure item, matching the foresight of our predecessors. The by law reviews have now reached the last stage and are subject to ministerial approval. Work has continued in readiness for Marine Conservation Zones being established in our area. This is a massive task and the impact in Northumberland will be significant. The benefits of partnership working are clear whether it be with Newcastle University or the Marine Management Organisation as the wider remit established by the 2009 Act becomes a reality. I want to thank our staff team past and present for their contribution and especially Mike Hardy, Northumberland IFCAs Chief Executive. The first term of the original IFCA members has concluded. We are fortunate in Northumberland to have a very high degree of continuity in new appointments – that shared commitment and experience will be very useful. I owe my Vice Chair, Les Weller, a particular debt of gratitude for his unstinting support. In these tough times it is good to share a positive story and to reflect on some real achievements.

Robert Arckless

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2. Vision, Success Criteria and High Level Objectives

The National IFCA Vision:-

“IFCAs will lead, champion and manage a sustainable marine environment and inshore fisheries, by successfully securing the right balance between social, environmental and economic benefits to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry”.

Progress up to 31 March 2015 by reference to Annex 1 of the NIFCA Annual Plan 2014 – 2015.

Success Criterion 1 : IFCAs have sound governance and staff are motivated and respected

Staff feel proud to work for their IFCA and have the training and skills to deliver their Authority’s objectives in a professional, fair and consistent manner. They are supported by excellent leaders and managers, working alongside engaged and effective committees. These committees are representative of the communities they serve and wider stakeholder interests; they have the backing of constituent local authorities and provide the strategic direction to ensure the long-term sustainability of the marine environment in and around their districts.

High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

1a By April each year, publish an annual plan that meets minimum standards as set out in Defra guidance, setting out the authority’s main objectives and priorities for the year.

This objective has been achieved by due publication each year of the NIFCA Annual Plan which meets the required standard.

1b As soon as is reasonably practicable after the end of each financial year, prepare a report on the IFCAs activities in that year, in line with Defra guidance.

Achieved by publication of this Annual Report.

1c

Demonstrate a long-term, strategic approach to sustainable marine management, in line with duties in the Marine and Coastal Access Act, clearly articulating how the IFCA will do this through annual plans and/or longer-term strategies. Delivery is on-going, with the first formal review in 2015.

The NIFCA Risk Assessment Matrix is referred to and used as a guide, as well as being kept under review.

Strategic Environmental Assessment has continued. Initiatives include commencing lobster stock assessment project.

The national Project Inshore has provided information to aid sustainable marine management.

Authority Strategic Research Plan has been developed by qualified and experienced scientific officers and is a point of reference for

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management initiatives and decisions.

Electronic Database for shellfish permit returns (Byelaw 13) operates effectively including capacity for online returns by permit holders.

1d Staff management systems are in place that include:

an annual staff performance monitoring system, which sets clear work objectives for every member of staff that are linked to the organisational objectives described in the annual plan and monitors their performance against a set of agreed criteria; and

a performance improvement procedure.

IFCAs must show progress in

this objective by April 2011, for example by having gained Committee agreement to introduce such a system, with fully-functioning staff management systems in place by April 2012.

Staff meetings, rota meetings and staff appraisals have continued.

The Authority has undertaken a comprehensive review in 2014/15 of Employment Performance Contracts Review and Reward for all staff including IFCOs. Staff reviews (appraisals) under the new system began in 2014-15. The new system is intended to enhance performance and recognise achievement.

1e Develop and deliver a people capability strategy, which ensures that staff can deliver the organisational objectives as set out in annual plans, aided through training, mentoring and new skills development. The strategy should be developed by April 2012; IFCAs should demonstrate on-going delivery, with the first formal review in 2015.

The People Capability Strategy is referred to when necessary.

The high capability and levels of qualification of the Authority workforce has been enhanced through ongoing and strategically planned training. New IFCOs and staff are mentored to develop and enhance performance.

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1f By September 2012,

demonstrate that staff are engaged with the objectives of the organisation, can influence the direction and development of the organisation and are free to constructively challenge decisions without reproach.

All staff and members can contribute to and comment on all Authority policies and business. Constructive challenge is permitted and indeed encouraged, without reproach.

Regular meetings with staff and “open door” policy by Chief Executive re staff queries and suggestions.

Aln Fish Survey – Officers and Members working together

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Success Criterion 2 : Evidence based, appropriate and timely byelaws are used to manage the sustainable exploitation of sea fisheries resources within the District

The decisions to introduce, amend or repeal byelaws are evidence-based and timely, based on appropriate consultation and can be shown to have a positive impact in line with their intended effect to manage, protect and promote the recovery of sea fisheries resources from the effects of exploitation.

High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

2a By September 2012 demonstrate that:

key issues likely to impact on the sustainable management of the marine environment in the IFCA district are identified and evaluated using the best available evidence and a range of management options is considered;

the impacts that different courses of action might have in managing those key issues are thoroughly evaluated;

proportionate regulation (for example introducing a legal mechanism such as a byelaw) is used as a last resort;

the effectiveness of interventions to improve the delivery of beneficial outcomes is continuously monitored; and

there is a clear IFCA Committee process for dealing with agreed interventions quickly, efficiently and effectively, particularly for emergency byelaws.

The two new byelaws numbered 16 and 17 which came into effect on 1st January and 1st April 2014, provide protection to the sensitive seabed and seagrass, but with the Authority monitoring the byelaws implementation and undertaking ground truthing to establish any areas which may not need the protection from trawling which is afforded by byelaw 16 in the B&NNCSAC. All of this has been reported on regularly to Authority Member meetings.

2b By April 2015, all legacy byelaws have been reviewed and evaluated against current evidence base; redundant and duplicate byelaws have been removed and gaps covered.

Legacy byelaw review was completed in 2014-15 and a package of 6 new byelaws was made at the Authority Quarterly meeting in October 2014. The Statutory Consultation was then completed and the byelaws forwarded to the MMO with a view to Ministerial signature to implement the byelaws as soon as possible in 2015-16.

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Success Criterion 3 : A fair, effective and proportionate enforcement regime is in place

A risk-based enforcement regime is in place, which is in line with the Regulators Compliance Code, legislative requirements, and which makes IFCAs an efficient and fair enforcer, managing the exploitation of sea fisheries resources, using a range of alternative enforcement methods and sanctions whose impact and effectiveness is regularly assessed and continually improved.

High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

3a Demonstrate the use of a transparent, risk-based enforcement framework that meets the minimum standard set out in government guidance and is continuously reviewed and improved.

The Authority risk based enforcement framework has continued to be referred to and kept under review particularly by our very experienced Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental).

3b Develop and apply a code of conduct for inspections that aligns IFCA activity and procedures with national standards.

The code of conduct for IFCOs is referred to and kept under review.

The Chief Executive (as well as the Chief IFCO) continued to attend the Marine National Enforcement Training Group and which became the National Marine Enforcement Group (NIMEG) as well as the Chief Executive tutoring on the annual IFCO Enforcement Training Course for IFCOs from all Authorities. Two IFCOs also attended that course, as well as the other training referred to in Annex 3 below.

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Success Criterion 4: IFCAs work in partnership and are engaged with their stakeholders

IFCAs will work across boundaries, engaging effectively with local and central government, other government bodies, other delivery bodies, industry and other NGOs, recreational users and individuals in the work that they do. Through this partnership approach to working IFCAs will deliver the socio-economic and environmental outcomes they were created under the Marine and Coastal Access Act to deliver.

High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

4a By April 2011, develop Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) or Service Level Agreements with key partners, including Cefas, MMO, Natural England and the Environment Agency, that outline agreed ways of working and sharing information and, by April 2012, demonstrate that they are being utilised. Consideration should be given to having a Service Level Agreement with a lead local authority within the IFC District.

National MoUs with Cefas, MMO, Natural England and the Environment Agency have continued as well as the local JWA in the NIFCA district with MMO, EA and NE, which has been kept under review by all parties during the year. Work also continued under MoUs with Newcastle University School of Marine Science and the Tweed Commission.

Joint working with the MMO including patrols using Authority vessels and ashore. Joint working with NE, particularly in respect of EMS Revised Approach, NE support for projects particularly SEA and also with Newcastle University. Joint working with the EA.

The Authority also continues to operate a SLA with Northumberland County Council in respect of provision of IT Services from the County to the Authority, as well as working in other areas with Northumberland County Council including Human Resources and internal audits.

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High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

4b By April 2012, develop a stakeholder engagement and communication strategy with corresponding plans that:

demonstrate transparency and a balanced approach to dealing with key stakeholders; and

enable consideration of stakeholder views when

making decisions.

The Authority has engaged with stakeholders throughout 2014-15 in many ways and as referred to in the Authority stakeholder engagement and communication strategy, informed by meetings with the Authority’s independent media adviser. In particular in 2014-15 the Authority began the proactive use of Twitter and Facebook, which has proved to be most beneficial by enhancing the speed and range of communication by the Authority. The Authority has also continued to use the services of local media and Fishing News to publicise its work. Work undertaken with other agencies includes with the MMO, (particularly Joint Patrols), EA, NE, Newcastle University and the Tweed Commission. MoUs have continued with the latter two. Website development has also continued. The Authority has a stakeholder database which is kept under review. Forms and documents are available for electronic downloading from the website. A good response has been received to communication by the Authority in the district, as evidenced by positive feedback when this has been sought.

4c By April 2014, review MoUs and stakeholder engagement and communication strategy/plans and implement any necessary improvements by April 2015.

These have continued to be kept under review including the JWA and that review led to the use of Twitter and Facebook on a carefully managed basis. The Authority’s communication strategy is reviewed quarterly by the Authority CEO and this contributes to positive feedback which is received.

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Success Criterion 5: IFCAs make the best use of evidence to deliver their objectives.

IFCAs, by acquiring and sharing their own internal data and by seeking and sharing those generated and recorded by others (including the MMO, Environment Agency, Natural England and Cefas), will have access to the necessary scientific, statistical and socio-economic information relating to inshore fishing and the marine environment to enable effective delivery of their duties.

High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

5a By April 2012, put procedures, plans and appropriate records systems in place that demonstrate that the best available, quality-assured evidence, whether acquired in-house or externally, is used appropriately in decision-making at all levels. These procedures, plans and records systems must meet minimum standards as set out in government guidance and EU legislation.

Evidence continues to be gathered by permit returns (NIFCA Byelaw 13), as well as by officers in the course of their duties including using MCSS on-board the Authority patrol vessel and also by projects particularly with Newcastle University and supported by NE. The evidence and data gathered is analysed by environmental IFCOs and other marine scientists particularly at Newcastle University to guide management decisions with resultant reports posted on the Authority website. This comes together in the Authority Annual Research Plan which was published early in the year and kept under review. Evidence which is gathered and analysed is used in decision making including byelaw reviews, planning new byelaws and reported offences. Evidence is also key to the Authority’s SEA.

5b By April 2012, have an agreed action plan of how key, mutually-beneficial information will be shared between IFCAs and with key delivery partners to improve efficiency and the delivery of beneficial outcomes.

Apart from existing MoUs/JWA, additional ones have continued with Newcastle University and the Tweed Commission. NIFCA environmental officers attend IFCA scientific conferences and one is also proactively involved in the IFCA TAG. The AIFCA is also a vital means of communication between IFCAs and more widely at a high level with Government and other key agencies and partners.

5c By April 2013, demonstrate that there is the in-house capability to collect, analyse and interpret evidence to inform management policy decisions and meet the minimum requirements laid out in government guidance on evaluation and monitoring.

Using the Strategic Research Plan as a basis for demonstrating use of evidence, resources and capability have been developed and that continued in 2014-2015. Research reports are peer reviewed before publication including Annual V-notching report, Mussel Survey and Annual Research Plans.

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5d By April 2014, review evidence and knowledge sharing procedures and implement any necessary improvements by April 2015.

Review of evidence and knowledge sharing has been a continuous and on-going process throughout the year and this is now at a high level of accomplishment.

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Success Criterion 6: IFCAs support and promote the sustainable management of the marine environment

IFCAs will deliver responsive and flexible management of sea fisheries resources to meet local needs, in line with the legislative and other frameworks set by Central Government and others, such as the High Level Marine Objectives, Marine Policy Statement and Marine Plans. In doing this, IFCAs will be able to show that they are having positive impact, leading to more sustainably exploited sea fisheries resources in their districts.

High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

6a By April 2012, with partner organisations develop shared objectives for the sustainable management of the District’s marine environment and ensure that they are reflected in annual plans.

Shared objectives are in the JWA and identification of likely impact on IFCA objectives was monitored including coverage through the SEA in 2014 – 2015. Development of shared objectives in MoUs with Newcastle University (particularly in respect of ongoing shared research/projects) and Tweed Commission (regarding the sharing of information, a meeting of all officers to discuss respective duties and some cross warranted work) has continued in 2014 - 2015. Joint working also continues to take place where required with other marine management and enforcement agencies, particularly IFCAs and the police.

6b By April 2013, develop and implement action plans for communicating and educating coastal communities about sustainable management of the marine environment.

The Authority promotion and communication plan covers raising awareness of IFCA work including media articles through our newsletter and on the Authority website, particularly the news page. Twitter and Facebook has also been critical in this respect. Development has therefore continued in 2014-15 with training during the year including for Members and also at stakeholder events.

6c By April 2015, demonstrate adoption of the principles of best practice in sustainable management of marine environment for the District, as exemplified using tools such as Strategic Environmental Assessments.

Officers have continued to identify and prioritise issues impacting on sea fisheries resources in the district and this was inputted into the Authority SEA. The Authority also began consideration of a Code of Conduct for mussel gathering in the River Blyth Estuary. By responding to consultations (see Annex 4) the Authority also contributed to the increase of sustainable management and awareness of our practices in that respect.

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High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

6d By April 2015 at the latest, but showing progress from April 2011, demonstrate adoption of minimum standards (for example in line with government guidance on sustainable development) and a precautionary approach for the management and protection of sites of special scientific interest, national nature reserves, Ramsar sites, European marine sites, and/or Marine Conservation Zones within the IFC District.

This has been demonstrated and continued upon an ongoing basis during 2014-15 in respect of the Authority’s continued implementation of the European Marine Site Revised Approach and development of Marine Conservation Zones. In particular, the Authority after making its “red risk” byelaws 15 and 16 has continued throughout the year to assess Amber risks e.g. potting and netting and is working towards the deadline of the end of 2016 for implementation of any new management measures which are required.

Lobster survey September 2015

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Success Criterion 7: IFCAs are recognised and heard

Each IFCA, and IFC authorities as a group, have a vision and plan for future management of inshore fisheries and conservation. This will help them to be a recognised “brand”, managing their public voice so that they are respected and trusted for the expertise they offer.

High level objective Outcomes and performance indicators

7a By April 2012, demonstrate ability to effectively engage with Local and Central Government and key partner organisations at a national level, to the benefit of IFCAs as a whole.

The Authority particularly through the work of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive have continued throughout 2014-15 to be actively involved in the AIFCA. The Association deals inter alia with national MoUs on behalf of all IFCAs and operates at a high level with national Government. Local JWA is operational with MMO, EA and NE and has undergone further review. Liaison has also continued with local Parliamentarians, Council Officials and Councillors giving a high level of engagement with local and central government. As well as attendance at AIFCA meetings, the Chief IFCO and/or the Chief Executive attend quarterly IFCA COG meetings. At all these meetings there is the liaison with representatives of other/partner agencies.

7b By April 2013, develop a strategy and corresponding plan for promotion of the work of IFCAs and the benefits that they offer to the local community, and demonstrate implementation of the plan by April 2015.

Promotion and communication plan in place and very well established. Quarterly review thereof with Authority media advisor. See Annexed list of meetings attended and media coverage (Annex 2) in 2014-2015. Newsletters have continued to be produced and other communications through the website, Twitter and Facebook, local media and meetings. A compliments comments and complaints system is also in place. All IFCA staff are badged as appropriate (IFCOs). All staff have necessary experience to speak where and to whom appropriate upon the Authority’s aims and objectives. An annual staff review system is now established and operational.

REVISED SUCCESS CRITERIA WERE ALSO BEING DEVELOPED IN THE LATTER PART OF 2014-15 BY THE NATIONAL IFCA COG, INCLUDING THE NIFCA CEO, BUT THESE WERE NOT DUE TO BE IMPLEMENTED AND REPLACE THE EXISTING SUCCESS CRITERIA UNTIL 2015-16

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3. Local Targets and Priorities from NIFCA Annual Plan

1. To ensure the continued successful performance of NIFCA, delivering all of its duties and fulfilling the IFCA Vision, Success Criteria and High-Level Objectives appertaining as resources permit (refer to all of the Success Criterion where applicable for 2014 – 2015).

Achieved in 2014-15.

2. To maintain an effective management and enforcement regime in the district to ensure a sustainable fishery and environment on an on-going basis (refer to Success Criterion 3).

Achieved, including successful implementation of new byelaws 16 and 17.

3. To continue with the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the district and commence monitoring under the SEA. The SEA provides a formalised and structured process to enable the environmental effects of the managed fisheries in the district to be assessed and considered and aid management decisions. The management regime will thus be measured against sustainability objectives to achieve the best possible performance of management so that the fishery remains sustainable (refer to Success Criterion 5 and 6).

SEA is implemented. Referred to as a management tool. Will be kept under review in 2015-16.

1. 4. To consider any follow up work which may be required to the “Project Inshore” assessment of fisheries led by the Marine Stewardship Council and carried out in most IFCA districts and take any necessary action arising from the project (refer to Success Criterion 5 and 6).

Project Inshore has been followed to maximum possible extent in 2014-15.

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5. 5. Regarding Marine Conservation

Zones, to properly monitor the Aln Estuary MCZ and bring in any necessary management measures such as a Voluntary Arrangement or monitoring, consulting with stakeholders and partner agencies. Regarding development of future Marine Conservation Zones, to liaise with Defra and other agencies and ensure full preparedness is in place (refer to Success Criteria 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6).

4.

Aln Estuary has been monitored, including fish surveys. Authority consulted and responded regarding Tranche 2 of MCZs.

6. European Marine Sites – NIFCA is a competent and relevant Authority in relation to EMS under the Habitat Regulations and has a duty to fulfil conservation objectives to ensure that qualifying features are maintained in a favourable condition. To that end NIFCA will continue to play an active role in ensuring that the objectives and aims of the management plan for the B&NNC EMS are met and enhanced. This will be achieved by NIFCA officers sitting on the management and steering groups of the EMS and attending relevant meetings. During regular work at sea IFCOs also undertake extensive monitoring of commercial fishing activity occurring within the site and have been assisting Natural England with sea floor mapping of survey areas within the site. In addition and in particular NIFCA will fulfil its remit in relation to the Defra led Revised Approach to management of commercial fisheries in EMS in the district* and everything which that entails including any necessary byelaw provision in addition to that made in 2013/14 prohibiting the use of mobile gear and protecting seagrass (refer to Success Criterion 4 and 6).

* The NIFCA district has six EMS – four SPAs and two SACs. B&NNC EMS comprises the B&NNC SAC and Lindisfarne SPA; in addition there is the Tweed Estuary SAC, Northumbria Coast

This local target has been achieved. Close working relationships particularly with B&NNCEMS Site Officer (who is an Authority member) and NE (through their representative/member on the Authority) continue positively with strong outputs, as required from the wide ranging nature of this priority area.

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SPA, Farne Islands SPA and Coquet Island SPA. Further details can be found on the NIFCA website in the document “The Revised Approach to the Management of Commercial Fisheries in European Marine Sites; what does this mean for Northumberland?

7. To carry out a further Lobster Notching v Notching Programme (refer to Success Criterion 6).

This was duly carried out in the summer and autumn of 2014.

8. To carry out a further Mussel Survey at Holy Island (refer to Success Criterion 6).

This was duly carried out in April 2015.

9. To continue working in accordance with the national IFCA MoUs with each of the MMO, NE, EA (and particularly the local Joint Working Arrangement with the MMO, NE and EA – copy on the Authority website), and Cefas; also with commercial and hobby fishermen including recreational sea anglers, the Marine Science and Technology School at Newcastle University, the Tweed Commission, the police when necessary and other stakeholders to facilitate compliance with the IFCAs objectives and duties as resources permit. Also to continue Joint Working with other IFCAs particularly through the Association of IFCAs, Chief Officers Group and Technical Advisory Group (refer to Success Criterion 4).

This has been achieved.

10. To complete the review and evaluation of all Legacy Byelaws from NSFC. Any which are redundant are to be removed and any new Byelaw provision which is required is to be made – the Authority is aiming to complete this process before the end of 2014 – 2015. It is also envisaged that further byelaw provision could be made arising from the Defra led Revised Approach to Commercial Fisheries in European Marine Sites (and if not in 2014 – 2015 then in 2015 – 2016) (refer to Success Criterion 2). For the avoidance of

Completed by making of 6 new byelaws at October 2014 Quarterly meeting. No new/further byelaw provision required during the year.

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doubt, NIFCA byelaws will always be kept under review and subject to any amendment or revision which circumstances may require.

11. Having completed the installation of the new Authority Shellfish Management database, to keep under review all evidence and data systems to ensure we use the best available evidence and that data is securely held and used appropriately in NIFCA decision making (refer to Success Criterion 5).

The database has been developed and its usage enhanced in 2014 – 15, with improved outputs and the Authority will aim in 2015-16 to take all necessary action to ensure full compliance with the requirement on all permit holders to make timely returns to the Authority, ensuring comprehensive receipt of the important data in these returns.

12. To continue development and working under the Authority Promotion and Communication Plan and Compliments, Comments and Complaints Data Collection System as resources permit (refer to Success Criterion 4 and 7).

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This has continued. See Outcomes and Performance Indicators under Success Criteria 4 and 7 above.

13. Sea Angling – to build as resources permit upon the Cefas Sea Angling Project 2012 which NIFCA carried out in the district of the Authority and develop the NIFCA Sea Angling Strategy including surveys of sea angling activity both on land and at sea to reflect the importance of RSA in the district. Also to take account of bait digging in the district, liaising with stakeholders (refer to Success Criterion 4 and 5).

The Authority now has an online sea angling survey, which can also be completed on paper. Liaison with sea anglers in their clubs and at events has also been developed, as well as IFCOs meeting them in the district. Bait digging has also been under consideration.

14. NIFCA projects – NIFCA will continue with research projects particularly with Newcastle University in relation to crab and lobster stocks and European Marine Sites, all of which projects have been on-going since 2012 – 2013. The University and Marine Science and Technology School are also working and collaborating with NIFCA regarding the mapping of seabed habitats in EMS and in respect of Lobster V Notching, as well as working in the district in respect of mammals, seabirds and marine insects. NIFCA will also continue to keep under review as in

These projects have continued and are reported upon to members/at Authority meetings and on the Authority website.

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previous years its role in relation to the marine historic environment. Although due to resource limitations full development of this area of work has not been possible in 2012 – 2013 NIFCA will continue to have regard to the need for preservation of any features of archaeological or historic interest whenever or wherever that is possible in the district (refer to Success Criterion 4, 5 and 6).

15. To continue to assist with the Amble 2020 Project particularly in respect of its aspiration to develop a Lobster Hatchery as well as aquaculture and aquaponics projects.

This project has continued, with great assistance from a Newcastle University post graduate student, supported by the Authority. The project is led by Amble Development Trust, with intended benefits scientifically, educationally and commercially and ultimately for stocks sustainability and the benefit of the local fishing industry.

16. To continue with adherence to the principles laid down in the Defra Guidance to IFCAs and as resources permit in:

(a) The common enforcement

framework (refer to Success Criterion 3);

(b) Evidence based Marine Management (refer to Success Criterion 5); (c) Monitoring and Evaluation and Measuring Performance (refer to Success Criterion 5);

(d) Contributing to the Achievement of Sustainable Development (refer to Success Criterion 6); (e) Annual Planning and Report (refer to Success Criterion 1); (f) Byelaw Making Powers under the Marine and Coastal Access Act (refer to Success Criterion 2). NIFCA will also publicise as required all of the IFCA policies arising from that Guidance and keep each Guidance document and actions required thereunder under regular review.

The principles in these documents have continued to be followed where applicable, as well as being referred to as necessary, during 2013-14. IFCA policies/essential information therefrom, are also appropriately publicised.

21

Each of the targets/priorities will be reviewed at NIFCA quarterly meetings so that planning to tackle any gaps can be formulated and the implementation of findings can also commence. Measurement of attaining objectives set by these targets and priorities can also take place at these meetings by reference to the relevant Outcome and Performance Indicators in the NIFCA Success Criterion with re-setting of any targets and priorities which may be required and planning for their future attainment.

Fish Survey Alnmouth May 2014

22

4. Work Plan Summary - see NIFCA Annual Plan 2014 – 2015 Section 5 This has been followed and targets have been met as referred to and as detailed elsewhere in this Annual Report. That is a noteworthy achievement considering the extra burden upon financial and particularly human resources created by the Revised Approach to the Management of Commercial Fisheries in EMS. Particular areas which have been enhanced in 2014-15 include survey work in the Aln Estuary and Druridge Bay, Lobster Survey work on fishing vessels in the district and enhanced recreational sea angling liaison.

Checking Fish Survey Results Alnmouth May 2014

5. Risk Management Strategy Throughout 2014 – 2015 the Authority has managed risks to the delivery of its priorities by reference to the Risk Assessment Matrix (Annex III to Annual Plan) which has been kept under review and updated on the Authority website. The Authority Guidance Policy Statement and Sanction Policy Statement has also been followed. Enforcement – the Authority Risk Enforcement Framework has been established and followed and will continue to be kept under review in 2015 – 2016. The strategies embodied in the Risk Assessment Matrix and Risk Enforcement Framework have been reported on to the members and guided planning of the Authorities activities throughout 2014 – 2015.

23

6. Resources Report The Authority is now well settled into leasehold premises at 8 Ennerdale Road, Blyth, with the lease commencing in 2013 and with review of the lease after 5 years (2018) and with the aim that the Authority should remain in these premises (which provide an excellent work base) in the long term. This location also offers excellent storage facilities as well as being used as a venue for Quarterly and other Authority meetings. In addition, there has been continued hosting of meetings with third parties/partner agencies e.g. COG and the Joint Local Marine Enforcement Group. Regarding the Authorities vessels, there has been the major change of course in the replacement of St. Oswald by St. Aidan as the Authority patrol vessel, including on-board RIB. The Authority’s resources remain otherwise as stated in the Annual Plan for 2014-15.

Financial At the end of 2014-15 the Authority’s general reserves stood in the sum of £159,353 and the patrol vessel fund at £322,651. Final payments for St. Aidan were then pending.

7. Budget Report 2014 - 15 The surplus of £19,321 generated in 2014-15 was largely due to the delay in appointing a replacement for the administrative officer who retired on 5 June 2015 and the sale of St Oswald on 8 February which meant that there were no fuel or running costs for 2 months. Also during the year NIFCA received a grant of £15,000 from Defra which enabled it to purchases vital equipment to assist with fisheries management in Marine Protected Areas and in particular Marine Conservation Zones. During the year NIFCA completed the sale of St Oswald on 8 February for £168,080. NIFCA also paid £543,870 to Goodchild Marine representing a total of 6 staged payments in the construction of St Aidan. A further 2 payments of £67,983 were scheduled to be paid and were duly paid in May 2015 following acquisition of the new vessel on 14 May 2015. The total cost of £679,836 is all financed from the PV Replacement Fund. Following the purchase the Authority’s reserved are reduced and the Committee has stressed the need to maintain a prudent level of general reserves whilst continuing to rebuild the PV Replacement Fund.

24

8. Northumberland IFCA Budget Summary 2014 - 2015

Northumberland IFCA Budget Summary 2014-15

Estimate

Actual

Variance

2014-15

2014-15

Expenditure Employee expenses 525,800

514,856

10,944

Patrol vessel expenses 74,500

76,949

(2,449)

Landrover/RIB expenses 6,500

6,723

(223)

60B establishment expenses 110,260

112,420

(2,160)

Legal expenses 5,000

4,741

259

Conference, training & expenses 25,000

28,835

(3,835)

Lobster v-notching 10,000

10,038

(38)

Strategic Environmental Assessment 13,000

11,914

1,086

contingencies 10,000

8,077

1,923

Total expenditure 780,060

774,553

5,507

Income Grants & contributions 2,000

16,400

14,400

other income 7,200

27,630

20,430

Total income 9,200

44,030

34,830

Net cost of service 770,860

730,523

40,337

Contribution to PV Replacement Fund 15,000

23,440

8,440

Contribution to/from (-) General Reserves (12,576)

19,321

31,897

Total 773,284

773,284

40,337

Northumberland County Council precept 644,687

644,687

0

North Tyneside Council precept 128,597

128,597

0

Total Local Authority Precept 773,284

773,284

0

The above figures exclude income and expenditure relating to the purchase of St Aidan and

the sale of St Oswald which were financed from the PV Replacement Fund as follows:

Purchase of St Aidan stages 1 - 6

543,869 Sale of St Oswald in February 2015

168,080

Net use of reserves

375,789

25

9. Governance Report NIFCA is a public body with governance provided ultimately by its committee of members who meet quarterly and on other occasions as referred to below. The Authority has held four General Meetings (quarterly meetings) during the year, on the first Tuesday in April (the Annual Meeting) July, October and January. These meetings can now and have been held at 8 Ennerdale Road, as well as the traditional venue of County Hall in Morpeth. Papers are prepared by the Chief Executive with the assistance of Authority officers for each of those meetings. The General meetings are open to the public and the press. Procedures at those meetings are governed by the Authority Constitution and Standing Orders with reference also where necessary to the Authority Code of Conduct for Members. Minutes of the meeting are produced as soon as possible after the meeting and approved at the next Authority quarterly meeting and then posted onto the Authority website. In 2014-15 the Authority also put draft minutes of our general meetings onto the website pending approval at the following quarterly meeting and thus giving the earliest possible notification to stakeholders. Before each annual/quarterly meeting and on the same day the Authority Watch and Finance Committees meet. These meetings are held in private and are reported upon by the Authority Chief Executive (and Chairman when appropriate) to the General meeting which follows. Minutes of those meetings are also produced for approval at the following quarterly Watch and Finance meetings. In addition to the above meetings the Authority has a number of sub-committees which have met throughout the year. These meetings offer guidance and make recommendations upon Authority policy to the main meeting of the Authority. Details of sub-committee meetings can be seen on page 26 of this report.

Lindisfarne Causeway

26

9. Governance Report (continued) - Members Meetings attended 2014 - 2015

MEMBER MAIN (STANDING) COMMITTEES

Watch (quarterly)

NM – Not Member of that

Committee

Finance (quarterly)

NM – Not Member of that Committee

General (quarterly)

R Arckless NCC (NIFCA Chair) 4 4 4

L Weller MMO (NIFCA Vice Chair) 4 4 4

L. Grimshaw NCC+ NM NM 1

D Ledger* None None None

J Woodman 4 4 4

R J D. Watkin NCC 2 3 3

Mrs C Hedley MMO 4 4 4

D. Herriott MMO 4 4 4

J Stephenson MMO 2 3 3

J Walton MMO* 2 2 2

M D Bould MMO 3 NM 3

Mrs J Fearon 1 NM 1

N Polunin MMO 2 NM 2

A B Ritchie MMO 3 NM 3

Mrs J Lee EA 3 NM 3

C Scott NE 3 NM 3

D Thompson MMO 3 NM 3

I Thomas MMO 4 NM 4

M Kitching MMO 4 NM 4

N Robinson 3 NM 3

B Burdis NM 3 3

E Simpson NM NM 2

* Ceased to be a member of NIFCA during 2014 – 15 + Became a member of NIFCA during 2014 - 15

Various members also attended the Authority’s subcommittees and other meetings held during the year as follows:-

Technical and Scientific meetings on 12 June, 10 July and 26 March. Prosecution Subcommittee 12 June. Audit EGM 18 June. Open Day at the Authority office 8 July. Byelaws meeting 15 September. Patrol Vessel Subcommittee meeting 17 September. Budget (and Technical and Scientific) meeting 8 December. Finance meeting 16 January.

27

10. Staffing and Service Standards 2014 – 2015 Environmental IFCO Sarah Aftergood left the employment of the Authority to return to her native Canada. Emma McLoughney became an Environmental IFCO and the Authority welcomed as a new Enforcement and Environmental IFCO Sally Stewart-Moore. The Authority’s staff membership otherwise remained unchanged. Service standards were maintained to a high level, as outlined in the Annual Plan and priorities were met, as referred to in this Annual Report.

11. Training Summary The Authority continues to recognise the importance of training to maintain skill levels for all IFCA officers and staff. This will be developed and enhanced in 2015-16. The Authority training strategy was also followed in 2014-15 and high quality training was given to staff as detailed in Annex 2 to this report.

12. Strategic Review At the time of going to press, the outcome of the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review and the future of “new burdens funding” from Defra for IFCAs is awaited. The level of funding which can be brought to the tasks in hand is obviously critical to the level and range of delivery by the Authority, but we remain determined to deliver the range of the Authority’s remit to the fullest possible extent and to the highest possible standards. There will continue to be a focus upon the training and development of staff and role of members. All of the above, on a well-managed basis, is crucial to the continued success of the Authority. We continue to live in extremely challenging times and the Authority will continue to focus upon our incredibly important remit as contained in the IFCA Vision. Careful thought has been given by the IFCA COG to new and revised Success Criteria to reflect changes in the last 4 years and as well as careful management in our own district, the Authority Chief Executive and other senior officers will continue to play a role nationally to an appropriate extent along with other IFCA representatives e.g. AIFCA, COG, TAG, IFCO Training and also liaison with government and other officials. As well as through social media, Authority representatives will also continue liaison with local stakeholders and as with other key areas, that will be kept under constant review and improvements and enhancements made whenever and wherever possible. The achievements of Northumberland IFCA in our first 4 years are considerable and it was extremely pleasing for that to be recognised in the Defra report to Parliament upon the first 4 years of all the IFCAs and every effort will be made to continue with those high standards to meet the challenges which lie ahead.

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Annex 1 Northumberland IFCA Meetings and Events Attended by Representatives of the Authority in 2014 – 2015

3 April 2014 Project Inshore Workshop in London attended by Chief Executive. 4 April 2014 Meeting re New Staff and IFCOs salary increments etc./structure with Drummond & Co. 7 April 2014 Enforcement Strategy meeting - Chief Executive and IFCOs at 8 Ennerdale Road. 8 April 2014 Amble 2020 Quarterly meeting attended by Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental). 11 April 2014 Marine and Coastal Biodiversity meeting at Dove Marine Laboratory attended by IFCO Aftergood. 15 April 2014 Chief Executive with Chair and Vice Chair preparation for Quarterly meeting and catch up. 16 April 2014 Chief Officers Group meeting in London attended by Chief IFCO. 23 April 2014 Chief Executive and Chair meeting Mr Rob Matthews and colleague from Defra at County Hall regarding the Defra Call for Evidence re: IFCAs. 25 April 2014 NIFCA officers meeting with Dr Catherine Scott from Natural England re: EMS Revised Approach Ambers – on-going meetings programme, this was the first of these meetings this quarter. 28 April 2014 Chief Executive and Finance Officers meeting with Barclays Bank representative re: barclays.net. 1 May 2014 Chief Executive meeting Professor Polunin at Newcastle University. 6 May 2014 Local Government Pension Scheme meeting at County Hall, Morpeth attended by Finance Officer. 7 May 2014 Staff meeting at Authority Office. 7-8 May 2014 Visit to Goodchild Marine in Great Yarmouth by Chief Executive, Chief IFCO, Seafish Surveyor Richard Blackhurst and member David Herriott regarding new Authority patrol vessel. 13 May 2014 Risk Assessment Matrix review meeting at the Authority office – Chief Executive, Chief Officer, Deputy Chief IFCO (Operations) and Finance Officer.

29

15 May 2014 am Chief Executive, Chief IFCO and Environmental IFCO Sarah Aftergood meeting Richard Simpson for advice re: the EIFCOs forthcoming appearance on the panel at the Food in Newcastle event the following week. 15 May 2014 Amble Development Trust event re: Amble 2020 attended by Chief Executive. 19 and 20 May 2014 Audit visit (Finance Officer and Assistant Finance Officer). 20 and 21 May 2014 Shellfish Association of Great Britain Conference at Fishmongers Hall in London attended by Chief IFCO Browne. 21 May 2014 Food Newcastle event as referred to above also attended by Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental). 28 May 2014 Joint Local Enforcement Group meeting at the MMO in Newcastle attended by Chief IFCO. 5 June 2014 am Audit meeting at Authority office with Chris Henderson attended by Chief Executive and Assistant Finance Officer. 5 June 2014 pm Chief Executive attending meeting with Drummond & Co. regarding development of Employment Contract Performance Review and Reward Scheme. 6 June 2014 Lindisfarne NNR meeting attended by Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental). 9 June 2014 Meeting at Urban River office in South Shields attended by Chief Executive to review their work re: website and database. 9 June 2014 pm Chief Executive and Assistant Finance Officer attending meeting with Chris Topham from Northumberland County Council re: Service Level Agreement. 11 June 2014 Chief Executive attending National Training Group meeting at the MMO in Preston together with representatives from other IFCAs, Environment Agency and Welsh Assembly Government. 12 June 2014 Boat Show in Southampton attended by Deputy Chief IFCO (Operations) Southerton and IFCO Graham. 14 June 2014 Chief Executive meeting the Chairman in Amble re: various matters. 16 June 2014 First Working Group meeting at the Authority office with Drummond & Co. re: Employment Contract Performance Review and Reward attended by Chief Executive, Chief IFCO, Assistant Finance Officer and IFCO Docherty. 17 June 2014 Association of IFCAs Members Forum in London attended by Chief Executive and Vice Chairman followed by the Association Directors meeting attended by Chief Executive. 19 June 2014 MMO/IFCA Chairs and Heads of Service meeting in London attended by Chief Executive and Vice Chairman. Stakeholder meetings regarding Legacy Byelaw Review and EMS Revised Approach on the evenings of:-

30

a) 23 June 2014 in Seahouses attended by Chief Executive, Chief IFCO, Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental) and IFCO McLoughney plus members Mr Ritchie, Mr Stephenson and Mr Woodman;

b) 24 June 2014 in Amble attended by the above four officers plus Chairman, Vice

Chairman and member Ian Thomas; c) 30 June 2014 in Berwick upon Tweed attended by Chief Executive and Deputy Chief

IFCOs (Operations and Environmental) plus member David Herriott. d) 1 July 2014 in Cullercoats attended by Chief Executive, Deputy Chief IFCOs and

EIFCO Aftergood. 24 June 2014 Second Employment Contract Performance Review and Reward meeting at 8 Ennerdale Road with the same personnel as in 21 above. 25 June 2014 Media training from R. Simpson & Associates for Chief Executive, Chief IFCO and Deputy Chief IFCO (Environemental). 26 June 2014 Chief Executive meeting Professor Polunin at Newcastle University and being introduced to the new Head of School Professor Andrew Wilmot. 27 June 2014 Chief Executive attending Association of IFCAs meeting with other Association Directors re: legal advice on Article 6. 30 June 2014 Chief Executive and Chairman meeting Mr Steven Mason at Northumberland County Council. 2 July 2014 Chief Executive and Environmental Officers meeting the new Northumberland Wildlife Trust Living Seas Officer Aurelie Bohan at the Authority office. 2 July 2014 Fisheries Consultation meeting re: Norway UK cable link land falling at Blyth attended by Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental). 4 July 2014 Joint Working Arrangement meeting at the Environment Agency office attended by Chief Executive plus Environmental Officers and Dr Scott, Jill Lee and Neil Robinson (postponed because Dr Scott unwell). 8 July 2014 Meetings at office re: MCZs plus Legacy Byelaw Review and Strategic Environmental Assessment. 9 July 2014 Amble 2020 meeting attended by Chief Executive. 9 July 2014 Catchment Partnership meeting attended by Deputy Chief IFCO (Environemental). 9 July 2014 pm Meeting Mr Jim McCarry to discuss digitalising the Authority’s old paper records. 15-16 July 2014 Chief Officer’s Group meeting at the Authority office. 17 July 2014 Impact Assessment Framework Webinar – Environmental Officers. 21 July 2014 Ewen Bell from Cefas at the Authority office re: Under 10 Reporting Project – meeting Chief Executive and Environmental Officers.

31

22 July 2014 IFCOs Southerton and Docherty meeting on site with Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve Manager Andrew Craggs. 24 July 2014 Chief Executive meeting (with Claire Hedley) with Chris Burgess of the Peregrini Project. 31 July 2014 Chief Executive and Staff Working Group Members regarding Employment Performance Contract Review and Reward (EPCR&R) meeting with Hamish Moore of Drummond & Co. 4 August 2014 Joint Working Arrangement (JWA) review meeting at the Environment Agency – Chief Executive, Chief IFCO, Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental) with Catherine Scott, Neil Robinson and Jill Lee. 6 August 2014 Chief Executive and DC IFCO (Ops) providing new member training. 7-8 August 2014 Visit to Goodchild Marine, Great Yarmouth regarding building of new patrol vessel – Chief Executive, Chief IFCO, DC IFCO (Ops), David Herriott and Richard Blackhurst from Seafish. 12 August 2014 Harbour Village Group meeting (Amble) attended by DC IFCO (Environmental). 14 August 2014 National Marine Coastal Working Enforcement Group meeting in London attended by Chief IFCO. 15 August 2014 Meeting with Hamish Moore re: ECPR&R – Chairman, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive and Chief IFCO. 17 August 2014 Cullernose Point litter pick organised by Vice Chairman and attended by IFCOs Green and Docherty. 20 August 2014 Chief Executive and DC IFCO (Environmental) meeting Catherine Scott at Authority office. 1 September 2014 Chief Executive attending Jessica Duffell Telsnig talk on her V-Notching Project at Newcastle University. 2 September 2014 “Environmental leave at the beach” litter pick organised by the Environment Agency and attended by various IFCOs. 2 September 2014 Cefas Crustacean Stock Assessment Workshop dialled in by IFCO McLoughney. 9 September 2014 Meeting with Pension Managers at County Hall regarding Authority Pension Policy attended by Chief Executive. 10 September 2014 Northern and Eastern IFCAs Cluster meeting in York attended by Chief Executive and Chief IFCO. 10 September 2014 Evening event for sea cadets with the MMO at Authority office attended by various IFCOs. 11 September 2014 Chief Executive and Chief IFCO meeting with Hamish Moore re: ECPR&R.

32

15 September 2014 Extraordinary General Meeting at County Hall re: byelaws. 16 September 2014 Environmental IFCO interviews – Vice Chairman, Chief Executive and Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental). 17 September 2014 Marina visits regarding launch of St. Aidan followed by Patrol Vessel Subcommittee. 23 September 2014 Association of IFCAs meeting in London attended by Chairman and Chief Executive. 29 September 2014 DC IFCO (Environmental) visit to Farne Deeps. 1 October 2014 Chief Executive and Environmental IFCO McLoughney meeting Rob Aubrook, Director, Natural Capital and Sustainable Growth Team, and Mike Quigley, Marine Senior Adviser, from Natural England. 2 October 2014 Conclusion of Mott MacDonald charter of Bravo One – DC IFCO (Ops) and IFCO Docherty. 7 October 2014 Chair, Vice Chairman and Ian Thomas meeting at County Hall – including preparation for this meeting. 7 and 8 October 2014 Beach Master Course attended by Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental) and IFCO Graham. 8 October 2014 Amble 2020 meeting attended by Environmental IFCO McLoughney. 9 October 2014 Operations and Enforcement/Environmental IFCO interviews Vice Chairman, Chief Executive and Chief IFCO. 10 October 2014 ECPR&R meeting Chief Executive, Chief IFCO and Hamish Moore. 14 October 2014 Chief Officers Group in London attended by Chief IFCO. 15-16 October 2014 National Shellfish Symposium in London attended by Environmental IFCO Docherty. 15-16 October 2014 Visit to Goodchild Marine re: St. Aidan Chief IFCO, DC IFCO (Ops), David Herriott and Richard Blackhurst and joined by Chief Executive, IFCO Graham, Ian Thomas and Martin Kitching. 21 October 2014 Chief Executive with Hamish Moore of Drummond & Co. re: Employment Contract Performance Review and Reward (ECPR&R). 24 October 2014 Chief Executive at Newcastle University with Professor Polunin and Jessica Duffill-Telsnig re: her continued Lobster Hatchery Project work. 30 October 2014 Strategic Environmental Assessment telephone conference CEO and DC IFCO (E) Green with Nicola Levy of Mott MacDonald. 3 November 2014 Chief Executive and Finance Officers meeting with Chris Topham from Northumberland County Council re: SLA.

33

3 November 2014 Chief Executive and Finance Officers meeting Chris Henderson and Barbara McKie from Northumberland County Council to plan for 2014/15 Audit. 3 November 2014 CEO attending at Newcastle University to sign paperwork with the University for Jessica Duffill-Telsnig Lobster Hatchery Project. 4 November 2014 BEACH Newcastle University Marine Science School premises in Blyth, opening by Duchess of Northumberland attended by CEO and Chairman. 11 November 2014 Amble Development Trust Seafood Broker interviews attended by CEO. 12 November 2014 Local Government Pension Scheme presentation at Blyth Council Offices attended by CEO and CIFCO. 13 November 2014 EMS Management Group Annual Forum at Eyemouth Golf Club attended by Vice Chairman, Ian Thomas, CEO, IFCO Stewart-Moore, as well as EMS Implementation Officer (and IFCA member) Claire Hedley. 19 November 2014 Amble Harbour Village meeting attended by DCIFCO (E) Green. 19 November 2014 “Oceans of Opportunity” event with Northumberland Wildlife Trust at Dove Marine Laboratory attended by IFCO Stewart-Moore. 20 November 2014 Water Framework Directive Workshop attended by DCIFCO (E) Green. 20 November 2014 Port of Tyne Oil Spill exercise attended by DCIFCO (Ops) Southerton. 24 November 2014 Admin Officer interviews (and on 28 November) by CEO and Assistant Finance Officer Temperley. 24 November 2014 Defra Electronic Data Capture re: Under 10 Steering Group dial in (DCIFCO (E) Green. 25 November 2014 CEO and CIFCO at Drummond & Co. re: ECPR&R. 25 November 2014 CEO and Chair at County Hall for photo for Annual Report. 26 November 2014 Blyth mussel bed viewing by CEO with DCIFCO (E) Green. 27 November 2014 LNNR meeting at Beal attended by DCIFCO (Ops) Southerton. 2 December 2014 CEO meeting with Cornwall and Southern IFCA representatives in London to prepare for IFCO Enforcement Training Course in February. 3 December 2014 Association of IFCAs quarterly meeting in London attended by Vice Chairman and CEO. 4 December 2014 AONB Annual Forum in Bamburgh attended by DCIFCO (E) Green. 4 December 2014 CEO meeting Hamish Moore re: ECPR&R. 9 December 2014 Rebecca Korda from Newcastle University meeting CEO and others at Authority office re: her Fishing Industry Project.

34

11 December 2014 CIFCO and DCIFCO (Ops) attending Enforcement Seminar at the MMO in Newcastle. 15 December 2014 CEO and DCIFCO (E) interviewing students for placement re: project with the Authority. 15 December 2014 North East Coastal Management Biodiversity Action Plan Group meeting attended by EIFCO McLoughney. 16 December 2014 Risk Matrix Review meeting attended by CEO, CIFCO, DCIFCO (ops) and Finance Officer Sutton. 16 December 2014 Officers and staff meeting followed by meeting for all with Hamish Moore of Drummond & Co. re: ECPR&R. 17 December 2014 CEO attending Amble Development Trust re: continuation of planning re: Seafood Broker position. 8 January 2015 CEO attending Ward Hadaway for legal advice re: temp situation. 9 January 2015 CEO meeting Richard Simpson re: general Authority Promotion and Communication. 12 January 2015 North East Standing Environment Group meeting attended by CIFCO. 14 & 15 January 2015 Chief Officers Group meeting in Chichester, Sussex attended by CEO. 21 January 2015 Amble 2020 quarterly meeting attended by CEO with Jessia Duffill-Telsnig to give presentation on current Lobster Hatchery Project. Sunday, 25 January 2015 EMcL and SSM attended the Amble Open RSA Competition. 28 January 2015 CEO Telecon with DEFRA and other IFCAs re MCZ Consultation. 29 January 2015 National Marine Enforcement Group (NIMEG) meeting in Preston attended by CIFCO. 30 January 2015 Natural England Habitats Regulation Training for Officers and Members at the Authority office.

1 – 6 February 2015 IFCO Enforcement Training Course in Torquay attended by CEO (tutor) plus IFCOs DG and SSM.

9 February 2015 Completion of sale of St. Oswald and vessel taken to Firth of Forth by CIFCO and crew.

10 February 2015 Manual Handling and Defibrillator Staff and IFCO Training (first of two such sessions) at Authority office

11 February 2015 Amble Harbour Village meeting attended by JG.

12 February 2015 CEO, CIFCO, JG and MS attended training for the carrying out of staff and IFCO reviews at Drummond & Co.

35

17 February 2015 JG and EMcL attended Defra/MMO event re CFP in North Shields. 17 February 2015 Lobster Hatchery Working Group meeting in Amble chaired by CEO. 18 February 2015 Environmental meeting – CEO, CIFCO and Environmental IFCOs.

19 February 2015 CEO attending Tripartite meeting in London re MMO appointees and other matters with other IFCA representatives plus MMO and DEFRA.

19 February 2015 EMcL attended Northumberland Coast Site Implementation meeting in Beal (am).

19 February 2015 EMcL attended at Dove Marine Laboratory to meet Newcastle University students regarding possible placements with NIFCA (pm). 20 February 2015 MPA Working Group dial in (SSM). 23 February 2015 Staff meeting at 8 Ennerdale Road (am).

23 February 2015 CIFCO and PT meeting Chris Topham from Northumberland County Council re Technology Service Level Agreement (pm).

24 February 2015 CIFCO, CEO, JG and SSM attending for annual meeting with Tweed Commission officers in Melrose.

26 February 2015 EMS Steering Group meeting in Berwick attended by EMcL and SSM.

26 February 2015 CEO meeting Annie Russell from Newcastle University Outreach re IFCOs presenting at University Summers Schools.

27 February 2015 CEO, CIFCO, JS and PT meeting John Lamb of Sunderland Marine at 8 Ennerdale Road re insurance of new patrol vessel.

27 February 2015 First Stakeholder event re MCZs etc. at 8 Ennerdale Road. 2 March 2015 Second Stakeholder event in Seahouses. 2 March 2015 Technical Advisory Group (TAG) attended by EMcL in London. 3 March 2015 CEO meeting PT, DC and CB to discuss Admin position. 4 March 2015 Third Stakeholder event in Amble.

5 March 2015 Fourth Stakeholder event at County Hall Morpeth. 9 March 2015 CEO meeting MS for periodic Health and Safety Review. 9 March 2015 CEO and Vice Chair meeting David Mitchell from Angling Trust in London. 10 March 2015 Association of IFCAs Forum in London attended by Vice Chair and CEO. 10 March 2015 Association of IFCAs Directors meeting attended by CEO.

36

10 March 2015 Crustacea Workshop in Bridlington attended by EMcL and SSM. 11 March 2015 Amble Harbour Village meeting attended by JG. 11 March 2015 EMcL attending Potting Workshop in London. 17 and 18 March 2015 CIFCO attended iVMS Workshop in London. 18 – 25 March 2015 MD and EMcL completed and passed Advanced Power Boat Training.

19 March 2015 Joint Local Enforcement Group meeting attended by AB and MS. 24 March 2015 Monthly Environmental meeting between CEO, CIFCO and Environmental officers. 25 March 2015 “ORCA” Launch on DFDS King Seaways attended by JG and SSM. 26 March 2015 MPA Dial In by EMcL. 26 March 2015 Technical and Scientific Sub-Committee meeting at 8 Ennerdale Road.

Saturday, 28 March 2015 Harbour Village Launch, with an NIFCA stall attended by JG and SSM.

31 March 2015 Joint Working Arrangement meeting – IFCA officers plus Catherine Scott, Neil Robinson and Phil Rippon at 8 Ennerdale Road.

Various other internal meetings took place during the year.

37

Annex 2 List of Press Reports referring to NIFCA 1 April 2014 to 31 March 2015

Date Paper Title

20 April 2014 Sunday Sun Shore anglers hoping outlook will be

better

4 July 2014 Fishing News NIFCA consultation to discuss byelaw

changes

9 May 2014 Fishing News Joint NIFCA and RNLI training exercise

18 July 2014 Fishing News Concerned Northumbrian potters meet

at Seahouses

1 August 2014 Fishing News NIFCA meets with local fishermen to

address concerns

14 August 2014 Northumberland

Gazette

Litter pick at coastal spot

15 August 2014 Fishing News Minimal impact traditional drift net

fishery

29 August 2014 Fishing News Views sought on NIFCA marine

environment report

5 September 2014 Fishing News Looking at Ireland’s inshore fisheries –

New measures for lobster fishery

(mentioning NIFCA management)

18 September 2014 Northumberland

Gazette

Five hour tidy up collects more than

300kg of waste

9 October 2014 News Post Leader 122 bin bags cleaned up

24 October 2014 Fishing News Skipper fined for breaching NIFCA

byelaw

19 December 2014 Fishing News Associations renewed in a contrasting

year

23 January 2015 Fishing News Chief IFCA Officers pay tribute

27 February 2015 Fishing News Northumberland IFCA

15 March 2015 Northumberland

Gazette

Northumberland fishermen have their

say on marine conservation

22 March 2015 Sunday Sun Anglers air views on marine

environment

27 March 2015 Fishing News Successful NIFCA stakeholder

meetings

38

Annex 3 Training Summary

15th 16th April, DCIFCO M.Southerton, IFCO E. McLoughney attended a EUNIS Classification and Seabed Imagery Course, run by Ocean Ecology held at the RNLI Headquarters in Poole. This course was attended by officers from all IFCA’s. 25th May, CEO M.H.Hardy. CIFCO A.B.Browne and DCIFCO J. Green attended a Media Training Day, by R. Simpson Associates. 22nd – 24th July, Environmental IFCO E. McLoughney and IFCO E. Balsdon attended a 3 day, STCW Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting Course at South Tyneside Marine College. 7th & 8th October 2014, Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental) J Green and IFCO D Graham attended a Beach Master Course, at South Shields. 27th – 28th November 2014, Chief IFCO A B Browne and Deputy Chief (Environmental) J Green attended the St Johns Ambulance First Aid Refresher Course in Newcastle, (every 3 years). 1st – 6th February, IFCO’s Darren Graham and Sally Stewart-Moore attended the Torquay IFCA Enforcement Course, 1st – 6th February, CEO Mike. H. Hardy attended Torquay IFCA Enforcement Course (as a Tutor). 10th February, DCIFCO Mark Southerton, DCIFCO Jon Green, IFCOs Emma McLoughney and Sally Stewart-Moore attended with office staff an half-day Manual Handling Course and a half-day AED Course held at the Authority’s office in Blyth. 19th February, CIFCO Al Browne, IFCOs Justin Cooke, Darren Graham and Eric Balsdon attended with office staff an half-day Manual Handling Course and a half-day AED Course held at the Authority’s office in Blyth. 2nd – 4th March, DCIFCO Mark Southerton and IFCO Emma McLoughney attended a Side-scan Camera Familiarisation Course in Great Yarmouth. 18th – 27th March, IFCOs Michael Docherty and Emma McLoughney attended and completed RYA Advanced Powerboat Training and Examination, Royal Quays Marina, North Shields. The Authority Finance Officers also attended Excel Training provided by Northumberland County Council during the course of the year.

39

Annex 4 Consultation Summary 2014-15

Date received Name of

organisation Consultation Response date

May 2014 MMO Tyne Tanker Berth, C1 Repairs and Bollard Upgrades, North Shields

May/June 2014

May 2014 MMO Swan Hunter Quay Wall Repairs 26 June 2014

June 2014 MMO Removal of items from North Sea ship wrecks

11 July 2014

June 2014 Capita Hartley Cove to the River Tyne Coastal Strategy

July 2014

July 2014 MMO

Wave diffusion at North Sunderland Harbour

7 July 2014

August 2014 MMO The Causeway resurfacing Phase 4 Holy Island

20 August 2014

September 2014 EA Habitats Regs: In combination assessment of European sites along the N.E. Coast relating to a new permission

October 2014

September 2014 MMO Wind and Direction Measurement Buoy and Wave Buoy Deployment

October 2014

October 2014 MMO Amble Development, The Seafood Town: Full Review Delivery

November 2014

October 2014 MMO Port of Blyth Maintenance Dredge disposal licence renewal: Full Review Delivery

October 2014 MMO Points System for Masters November 2014

October 2014 Shellfish Harvesting

Draft Holy Island Sanitary Survey Report November 2014

October 2014 Defra Marine Scotland Consultation – New Controls in the King Scallop Fishery

February 2015

January 2015 Defra CFP: Demersal Landing Obligation Consultation

March 2015

January 2015 Defra Consultation & Changes to Procedures for Recovery of Certain Marine Licensing Decisions for Secretary of State Determination

March 2015

January 2015 Defra Marine Conservation Zones – Consultation on sites proposed for designation in the second tranche

April 2015

February 2015 MMO Wildlife Licence – Dr Ben Burville March 2015

February 2015 Defra Consultation on reducing latent capacity in the English 10 metre and under fishing sector

March 2015

March 2015 Scottish Government

Promoting Best Practice for Inshore Fisheries: A Consultation on Measures for Hobby/Unlicensed Fishermen in Scottish Inshore Waters

April 2015

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Annex 5

Enforcement and Operations Summary 2014 – 2015 Throughout 2014-15 the Authority employed the following IFCOs:- Chief IFCO (Operations) A B Browne Deputy Chief IFCO (Operations) M Southerton Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental) J Green IFCO/Mate (Operations/Enforcement) D Graham IFCO/Engineer (Operations/Enforcement) J P Cooke IFCO (Operations/Enforcement) M. Docherty IFCO (Environmental) S Aftergood (left the Authority August 2014) IFCO (Environmental) E McLoughney IFCO (Operations/Enforcement and Environmental) and then (Environmental) S. Stewart-Moore (joined November 2014) Part-time IFCO (Operations/Enforcement) E Balsdon The Authority sold their patrol vessel St. Oswald including onboard RIB Delta 1 and completed the purchase of St. Aidan in April 2015. St. Aidan is a 16 metre glass reinforced plastic (GRP) Catamaran with a 5.4m RIB situated on the stern of the vessel with a large “A frame”. Also on-board St. Aidan is an up to date electronics package which is necessary for carrying out ground truthing and survey work. St. Aidan was built by Goodchild Marine, Great Yarmouth. The Authority also has Bravo 1, a 7m RIB which is stored at the Authority’s office at Blyth. The vessel is kept on a trailer and is able to be deployed at numerous sites throughout the district. As well as carrying out enforcement duties it was also used throughout the year for ground truthing, survey work and charter work, to name but some.

Anglers at Amble

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Operations Report

Category Metric Detail Total

Inspections at sea

Vessel patrols Count any patrol by a patrol vessel or survey vessel (mother/daughter boat combination counts as one patrol)

94

Fishing vessel boardings

Count fishing vessels (including unregistered/unlicensed) inspected at sea, where boarding was in pursuit of any relevant duty

95

Fishing gear inspections

Count store-pots, tiers/strings etc of fishing gear found deployed in the sea, where inspection was in pursuit of any relevant duty. Do not count gear inspected on board a vessel

122

Inspections ashore or in

port

Shore patrols Excursion/visit of any length to any part of the coast for an inspection or observation of fishing related activity

349

Port visits Individual port/cove/beach visits within a shore patrol 706

Premises inspections Markets, merchants, refrigerated units, retailers, food producers/outlets etc

83

Fish/shellfish landing inspections

First-hand observations of fish/shellfish as it was landed ashore from a vessel. Do not count inspections of fish laid out on a market or in a storage facility unless the landing of that fish was observed

243

Other inspections Count vessel gear/fish checks in port/ashore, diver and shore angler catches, vehicle contents, shellfish on lay areas etc

347

Investigation outcomes

Verbal warnings / advisory letters

Warnings, rebriefs or letters for minor breaches of legislation (no further action taken). Where both were issued to one person/company, count as one action

20

Case files generated For a serious breach of legislation which was thought would, or did, lead to a formal warning letter or the application of a legal sanction

9

Formal written warnings

For a serious breach of legislation, where evidence gathered was sufficient to take legal proceedings, but where a letter was instead deemed the most appropriate action

6

Formal cautions offered

Count all the cautions relevant to any one case 1

FAPs offered Count all the FAPs relevant to any one case 9

Individuals / companies prosecuted in court

Count all the persons and companies relevant to any one case 1

42

Number of Days Joint Working Occurred

Instances of Charters Performed by Authority Vessels

43

Synopsis of Shore Enforcement

Boardings Undertaken and Gear Inspected

44

Action Taken Against Offenders

Incidents of Fishing Activity Witnessed from Authority Vessels

Warnings Verbal warning 35

Written warning 8

Seized pots 132

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Financial Administrative Penalities

Date of offence

12/05/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Blyth. Fishing with Pots without affixing tags issued by the Authority as referred to in NIFCA Byelaw 15 ‘Pot Limitations’ subsection 2. Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 13, Penalty Level 1, £250

21/05/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Newbiggin by the Sea. Fishing with Pots without affixing tags issued by the Authority as referred to in NIFCA Byelaw 15 ‘Pot Limitations’ subsection 2. Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 13, Penalty Level 1, £250

09/06/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Amble. Not marking his surface markers contrary to NIFCA Byelaw 11 ‘Marking of Fishing Gear and Keep Boxes”. Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 12, Penalty Level 2, £500

09/06/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Amble. Fishing with Pots without affixing tags issued by the Committee as referred to in NIFCA Byelaw 15 ‘Pot Limitations’ subsection 2. Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 13, Penalty Level 1, £250

09/06/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Amble. Undersize Pot Bait, contrary to Council Regulation (EC) 850/98, Minimum Size of Marine Organisms. Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 9, Penalty Level 2, £500

17/06/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Boulmer. Undersize Pot Bait, contrary to Council Regulation (EC) 850/98, Minimum Size of Marine Organisms. Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 9, Penalty Level 2, £500

02/07/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Seahouses. Fishing with Pots without affixing tags issued by the Authority as referred to in NIFCA Byelaw 15 ‘Pot Limitations’ subsection 2. Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 13, Penalty Level 1, £250

15/08/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Cullercoats. Breach of ‘The Undersize Lobster Order” 2000 (No1503) Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 9, Penalty Level 2, £500

15/08/2014 Full-time fisherman owner/skipper Whitley Bay. Breach of ‘The Undersize Lobster Order” 2000 (No1503) Offered and accepted Financial Administrative Penalty (FAP) Category 9, Penalty Level 2, £500

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Date of offence Prosecution

10/01/2014 Full-time fisherman skipper Blyth James Arkle Failed to comply with Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority Byelaw 15 (5) as read with the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 - No person shall haul any other vessel’s or person’s pot, creel, trap or cage without firstly obtaining the agreement of the Committee. Pleaded guilty at North Tyneside Magistrate Courts on 3rd Oct 2014, Court Findings, Fine:- £110 Costs:- £390 Surcharge £20

Miscellaneous

One of the Authority’s members Dr Martin Kitching who is also a member of the North East Cetacean Project went to sea during the year along with some of his volunteers on-board the Patrol Vessel St Oswald hoping to sight cetaceans including White Beaked Dolphins, Dolphins, Porpoises and Minke Whales.

The NIFCA had a request from the MMO to help with a visit they had arranged for the local Sea Cadets and it was agreed this would take place at the Authority’s Office at Blyth. A number of displays and workshops were arranged along with a display of fresh fish and shellfish. NIFCA Officers explained the various different types of equipment they use for enforcement and survey work. This event has been arranged again for the following year.

NIFCA were contacted by the Editor of the Fishing News asking if he could come out for the day on-board the Authority’s Patrol Vessel St Oswald. This was arranged and it proved to be an excellent opportunity for officers to liaise with the press and the local fishermen.

Numerous Surveys have been carried out throughout the year by the Authority’s Environmental Team with the help of the other officers, these include, Mussel Surveys, Fish Surveys and Ground Truthing,

This year saw the NIFCA bid farewell to their Patrol Vessel St Oswald. The then NSFC took delivery of her in 2001 from ship builders in Hull and she served NSFC and then NIFCA very well. The Authority decided a replacement vessel was needed and in early 2014 Goodchild Marine Ltd, Great Yarmouth were awarded the contract to build a replacement 16m GRP Catamaran Enforcement/Survey Vessel. Officers and members made regular visits to the boat yard and she was delivered in the spring of 2015. In February 2015 St Oswald was taken to her new home up in the Firth of Forth, having been bought by a small company Forth Logistics and she is being used to tranship stores, parts and personnel to ships at anchor.

It has been a very busy year for all of the Officers, dividing their time between working on-board the Authority’s vessels, shore patrols, office, survey work, including working weekends, late and early patrols, joint working with other agencies, MMO, EA, Police, Tweed Commission and NEIFCA and also fitting in training and attending meetings.

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NOTES

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….. and welcome to St. Aidan