Understanding the Fisheries Act: Navigating Change in Coastal Fishing
In the swirling tides of change brought by the new Fisheries Act, one provision has stirred particular conversation among fishermen: Section 35. This section mandates that any holder of an individual and transferable quota must fish at least 75 percent of their annual allocation.
Sivert Amondsen, a consultant with KONFIFA—an advisory body for fishermen and trappers—is shedding light on the concerns that have arisen in the months following the law’s implementation. Many fishermen who transitioned to Individual Transferable Quotas (ITQs) after the act took effect have sought clarity regarding this obligation.
Interestingly, Amondsen notes a notable decrease in the number of critics aimed at the Fisheries Act.
Clarifying the Quota Rules
Since its enactment on January 1 of this year, the new Fisheries Act has posed challenges for coastal fishermen accustomed to navigating a less complex regulatory landscape. Among the myriad rules that have surfaced, the stipulation regarding a 75 percent fishing obligation has been particularly perplexing.
Under this framework, fishermen holding ITQs are compelled not just to hold their share but also to actively utilize it. The rationale from the Naalakkersuisut, Greenland’s governing body, is straightforward: to ensure that fishing resources are fully exploited each year. Therefore, if a fisherman does not utilize at least 75 percent of their quota for three consecutive years, the Fisheries Act stipulates that their quota share may have to be adjusted. Failing that, the government will reclaim any unused quotas, redistributing them to those in need.
Recently, the Department for Fisheries, Catching, Agriculture, and Self-Sufficiency clarified that this adjustment is meant to encourage a market dynamic where those with excess quota can sell to those who require more, fostering optimal annual usage.
It’s crucial to highlight that this adjustment applies only to those who consistently fail to meet the 75 percent usage threshold over three years. For instance, if a fisherman utilizes 75 percent or more in a third year, despite falling short the previous two years, they will not face quota revocation. Additionally, the legislation has built-in flexibility for situations such as illness or accidents, which could hinder a fisherman’s ability to meet the quota requirement.
Declining Criticism
Reflecting on the initial months post-implementation, Amondsen recounts a spike in inquiries from fishermen grappling with the new requirements, particularly those fishing for halibut under the ITQ system. These fishermen have been eager for guidance, especially concerning the 75 percent utilization rule.
“Previously, we saw overwhelming interest from those trying to navigate these changes,” he notes. “However, it seems that most fishermen are now more informed and understand the implications, alleviating their earlier anxieties.”
In a notable shift, an increasing number of coastal fishermen who initially opted for Olympic fishing under the new law are reconsidering their choice, expressing interest in transitioning to the ITQ system as soon as next year.
“The initial wave of criticism appears to have receded significantly,” Amondsen observes. Many fishermen are beginning to recognize the financial advantages and other benefits offered by the ITQ system compared to Olympic fishing.
Moreover, the current robust market prices for halibut and cod may be helping to quell dissent toward the Fisheries Act, as fishermen find themselves in a more favorable economic position. As adaptation continues, many are finding that the new rules may not be as daunting as they once feared.