MMO commences I-VMS roll-out phase for under six metre vessels
MMO is now commencing the roll-out phase of inshore vessel monitoring system (I-VMS) devices to under six metre vessels. This phase continues the MMO’s support for all under 12 metre vessels to enable them to meet the requirements to have an I-VMS device once legislation comes into force early 2024.
Fishers with vessels under six metres will benefit from the same grant funding of up to £1,050 per vessel and the streamlined claims process, which now only requires proof of purchase before repayments are issued, typically within three to five working days. The under six metre fleet can make funding claims up until Monday 18 December 2023.
MMO also confirmed that fishers with under six metre vessels are not expected to adhere to the phased installation dates that were published earlier this year for 80% of home ports. Instead, fishers with smaller vessels should focus on ordering their devices and reclaiming costs to take full advantage of the funding before the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund closes. As grant claims no longer require evidence of a device installation or data ping test, installations should be booked as early as possible.
Both suppliers of type approved devices, Fulcrum and Succorfish, have confirmed that their I-VMS units can be fixed to the under six metre fleet and offer removable power sources. Fishers should contact the suppliers to discuss which option is best for their circumstances.
Peter Clark, MMO’s Director of Operations said:
“I-VMS data will, for the first time, allow us to really understand fishing activity to enhance fishing opportunities and help us build models that support fisheries management and protection.
“Data from under six metre vessels will provide an important element to our current understanding, especially when it comes to small scale opportunities and displacement issues.
“Benefits of gathering I-VMS data from the under six metre fleet include search and rescue support, improved traceability of sea to plate journeys, and can help improve understanding and management of marine conservation and protection.
“We are committed to balancing the needs of protecting our marine environment while supporting economic and social prosperity for communities and the fishing industry – of which the under six metre fleet is a key element. We would like to thank everyone that has begun or completed the process of obtaining an I-VMS device.”
The phased roll-out for over six metre vessels which was announced the summer, is well underway with 50% of the fleet having already purchased a device. The plans for the over six metre fleet remains in place and fishers are urged to book installations during the set dates for their home port, or risk their installation being delayed, by 30 November 2023.
MMO continues to support industry by issuing guidance directly to affected fishers. Coastal teams are available at quaysides and MMO offices, and a dedicated helpline has been set up to help with enquiries - call 01900 508618 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. You can also email MMO at ivms@marinemanagement.org.uk.
For more information please visit: Inshore Vessel Monitoring (I-VMS) for under-6m fishing vessels registered in England.