Fishing Boats Must Keep Log and Display Radio Call Sign
In a bid to enhance transparency and safety in the fishing industry, the Director of Fisheries has introduced new regulations that require licensed fishing boats to keep a fishing log and display their radio call sign prominently.
Requirements for Fishing Logs and Radio Logs
According to Regulation 13(3), the fishing log and radio log must be produced on demand by a Fisheries Protection Officer for inspection. The logs must also provide copies or extracts thereof without payment. If the main radio equipment of a licensed fishing boat becomes unusable, the master must make arrangements for all information required by the Director to be relayed through another vessel.
Displaying International Radio Call Sign
In addition, Regulation 15 requires that each licensed fishing boat display its International Radio Call Sign prominently on board in accordance with international standards. The call sign must be:
- Painted in black on a white background or
- In white on a black background
- Maintained in good condition so that it is clearly visible at all times
Transhipment Licences and Operations
The Director has also introduced new regulations governing transhipment of fish, which require each fishing boat taking part in transhipment to have a transhipment licence. Regulation 19 states that no transhipment of fish can take place within the fishing waters unless a transhipment licence is in force for each fishing boat involved.
Requirements for Transhipment Licences
Applicants seeking a transhipment licence must submit an application in a form approved by the Director, along with:
- Relevant documentation
- Fees payable for transhipment licences
The licence will be valid only for a specific period, number of transhipments, and place or places of transhipment as specified in the licence.
Fees and Notification
Regulation 22 requires that fees payable for transhipment licences be paid in full or secured by:
- Irrevocable letters of credit
- Other means satisfactory to the Director
Regulation 23 states that certain regulations in Part II will also apply to transhipment operations, including those related to fishing boat notifications and security bonds.
Purpose of New Regulations
The new regulations are aimed at promoting transparency, safety, and responsible fishing practices in the British Indian Ocean Territory. The Director urges all licensed fishing boats to comply with these regulations to ensure a safe and sustainable fishing industry.