Marine Management Organisation
Details
Important update 09 August 2023
The roll-out of inshore vessel monitoring system (I-VMS) devices has restarted.
Following independent testing, two devices - Fulcrum NEMO and Succorfish SC2 remain type approved. MMO has been working closely with suppliers on improving processes to make it easier and more convenient for fishers to order and install devices.
The new plan focuses on scheduled port visits between 4 September to 30 November 2023, with installations delivered in phases at English home ports with the largest number of registered vessels, prioritising the over 6 metre fleet.
Over the next few weeks, MMO will also be working with suppliers and industry to fully understand the practicalities and plan the inclusion of under 6 metre vessels in the roll-out. We expect to have an update on this in coming weeks and will confirm as soon as possible what the roll-out plans will be.
In line with assurances given to fishers, MMO confirms it will cover costs of up to 1,050 to support fishers with securing a suitable I-VMS device, meaning fishers can reclaim purchase and installation costs.
The process for claiming funding has been streamlined and fishers can now apply for their European Marine and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) grant by providing proof of purchase from their preferred supplier.
EMFF grants are available until 30 November 2023.
Details of the ports being targeted, and associated phase dates, will be communicated directly to fishers from mid-August, although fishers can book an installation with their preferred supplier from today. Anyone with a device already fitted which is no longer type approved should not attempt to remove these devices themselves.
Our dedicated helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, by calling 01900 508618, or you can email our I-VMS Engagement and Support team at ivms@marinemanagement.org.uk.
Contents
- Introduction
- Funding for Inshore Vessel Monitoring System (I-VMS) devices
- Timescale
- Funding Criteria
- Apply now
- After you apply
Introduction
This page provides an overview of funding available for the Inshore Vessel Monitoring System (I-VMS) scheme for English under 12m vessels and how to apply. For more information on about I-VMS devices and the installation process, please refer to our general guidance pages.
Funding for Inshore Vessel Monitoring System (I-VMS) devices
Initial costs associated with the installation of MMO type approved I-VMS devices can be reimbursed through grant funding from the European Maritime & Fisheries Fund (EMFF), up to the value of 1,050 per vessel. The scheme provides financial support for eligible fishers to purchase and install an I-VMS device on board their vessel ahead of the introduction of new legislation that will make it a legal requirement to have an I-VMS device on board English vessels.
Timescales
I-VMS devices must be installed and operational before the introduction of the I-VMS Statutory Instrument (SI), which is not expected to come into effect until 2024.
The I-VMS roll-out plan is based on an installation schedule of port visits running from 4 September to 30 November 2023. The process for claiming funding has been streamlined and fishers should now claim their EMFF grant by providing invoice and proof of purchase from their preferred supplier, before 30 November 2023.
Vessels operating in Welsh & Severn and Devon IFCA waters
You need to transmit I-VMS data if you are affected by either the Welsh I-VMS rules which came into force on 15 February 2022, or the Devon and Severn IFCA mobile fishing permit byelaw.
Both authorities are working with any vessel owners impacted by the pause in the programme and fishers can contact our I-VMS Support & Engagement team with any questions, by calling our dedicated helpline, open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm or emailing ivms@marinemanagement.org.uk .
Funding criteria
Who can apply for funding?
All applicants must be English licensed commercial fishing vessels under 12m. Fishers can apply for grant funding once they have purchased their preferred Type Approved device. To apply you must have supporting evidence of an invoice and proof of payment.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to proceed with arranging purchase and installation of a preferred device as soon as possible.
Who cannot apply for funding?
You cannot apply for and receive funding if you have:
- been convicted of fraud under any other fisheries scheme
- been convicted of an offence that the MMO considers to be a serious infringement or fraud, in the 12 months before applying.
What can I apply for?
Applicants can apply for up to 1,050 grant towards the purchase and installation of a type approved I-VMS device on their vessel.
How to apply
All applicants applying to the Inshore Vessel Monitoring System (I-VMS) scheme should read our I-VMS guidance before applying.
You can apply for funding using I-VMS E-system
You will need to be able to pay for your entire project up front - you can then claim up to 1,050 of the costs back from MMO.
The process for claiming funding has been streamlined and fishers should now claim their EMFF grant by providing proof of purchase from their preferred supplier.
We will quickly assess your application upon receipt and notify you if any further information is required. Once we have all the required information, we will contact you to tell you if your application has been successful or not. If successful, you should receive payment into your nominated bank account within 3 working days.
What information do I need to provide?
You will need the following information to complete the application:
- Your personal/business details including name/address/ business name/VAT registration number (if applicable)
- Your vessel details
- Invoice for the type approved device purchased
- Evidence of payment from your bank account to the supplier.
Information will need to be uploaded as part of your online application. You can do this via your computer or mobile device by providing screenshots or photographs.
Apply now
Apply for funding using the I-VMS E-system
After you apply
We will quickly assess your application upon receipt and notify you if any further information is required. Once we have all the required information, we