Falkland Islands Amend Fishing Regulations to Protect Marine Resources
The Falkland Islands Government has made significant changes to its fishing regulations in an effort to protect the territory’s marine resources. These new measures aim to ensure the long-term viability of fish stocks and promote sustainable fishing practices.
Key Changes
- A “high seas fishing licence” is now required for all vessels engaging in commercial fishing activities outside of Falkland Islands waters.
- The license will be granted by the Government following an assessment of the vessel’s compliance with international conservation and management measures.
- New definitions have been introduced for key terms such as “Individual Transferable Quota A” and “B”, which refer to different types of catch limits for specific fish species.
- Provisions for “Individual Transferable Quota Eligibility Registers” and “Ownership Registers” will help track the ownership and transfer of quotas.
Intellectual Property Rights
The Falkland Islands Government has also clarified its stance on intellectual property rights related to fisheries research and management. The new rules recognize the importance of protecting intellectual property in this field, while ensuring that information is shared freely among stakeholders.
Revisions to “Intermediate Individual Transferable Quota Companies”
The Government has redefined “intermediate Individual Transferable Quota companies”, which are entities that own at least 51% of a qualifying company used for fishing. This change aims to promote more sustainable and responsible fishing practices by limiting the concentration of quota ownership.
Definition of Internal Waters
The Falkland Islands’ internal waters, which include marine areas adjacent to the territory’s coast, are now defined as those waters located landward of the baselines from which the territorial sea is measured.
Commitment to Marine Conservation
The new regulations demonstrate the Government’s commitment to protecting the Falkland Islands’ unique and diverse marine ecosystem. By adopting these measures, the territory aims to ensure the long-term viability of its fish stocks while promoting sustainable fishing practices that benefit both the local community and the environment.
These changes aim to promote a more responsible and sustainable approach to fishing in the Falkland Islands, ensuring the protection of the territory’s valuable marine resources for future generations.