Marine Management Organisation
During recent fisheries negotiations with the EU, it was decided pollack can only be caught as bycatch in 2024. This followed advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES) to set the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for pollack to zero.
The Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) available in 2024 offers a several options which may support fishers impacted by this change. These options are detailed in the table below.
Fast-track FaSS applications
Applications to FaSS are encouraged from all fishers, but hand-and-pole line fishers of under-10 metre vessels, which includes some of those impacted by the zero Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for pollack, will see their applications fast-tracked. Processing time is expected to be 4-6 weeks, on submission of a complete application with all necessary documentation provided.
FaSS grant fund options
There are several areas of the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme that may benefit pollack fishers:
| Type of support | Definition of support |
| Measure 2: Improving energy efficiency of fishing and mitigating climate change | You can apply for projects which will expect to see a reduction in fuel use. This could include: catalysers, new propellors, prop shafts, bilge keels, bow thrusters. |
|---|---|
| Measure 16: Improving the value and quality of fisheries products | You can apply for projects which will expect to see an increase in value of catch or net profits. This could include: refrigeration onboard vessel, ice machine, insulated fish boxes, vivier tanks, fish room refurb, processing equipment. |
| Measure 21: Diversification and new forms of income | You can apply for projects which will expect to see an increase in net profits, employment maintained or businesses created. This could include diversifying into recreational sea fishing. Provision of gear is not eligible for FaSS. |
| Measure 23: Health and Safety | You can apply for projects which will expect to see a reduction in accidents. This could include: a net flaker, new windows/wheelhouse replacement, deck replacement, gantry replacement, rope storage reels, deck safety lights, PPE, emergency handheld VHF. |
Funding rates
If your vessel is less than 12 metres in overall length and does not use towed gear, you will be eligible for a funding rate of up to 80%. In Measure 23: Health & Safety up to 80% funding is available for any vessel up to 12 metres, regardless of gear type used.
Payments
Payments for FaSS are made in arrears meaning you will need to be able to cover the upfront cost.
If your application is approved, an offer letter will be issued outlining the funding package and conditions of grant award. You can then purchase the items set out in the letter and can claim back the amount you have been awarded provided the conditions have been adhered to. You will need to provide evidence to support your funding claim through invoices and proof of payment, by way of a bank statement. Further information about payments and what happens after making an application for FaSS grants can be found on our FaSS post application guidance page.
Further information
Find more information on the general Fisheries and Seaood Scheme guidance page or contact the team using the details below.
Grants team
Marine Management Organisation
Lancaster House
Hampshire Court Newcastle upon Tyne
NE4 7YH
Telephone: 0208 026 5539
Email:FaSS.queries@marinemanagement.org.uk
Additional support
Pollack compensation scheme
On 10 April 2024, Defra introduced a pollack compensation scheme to provide support to those who have been most impacted by the by catch-only pollack fishery in the South West. The scheme, which is being administered by MMO on behalf of Defra, follows engagement with industry as to how pollack fishers can be properly supported.
Fishers that meet the qualifying criteria will be contacted directly by MMO by email or letter in the coming days. Fishers who believe they meet the requirements of this scheme but have not heard from MMO by Monday 29 April 2024 should contact us via the grants teams contact details above.
Cefas scientific study
Fishers affected by the zero Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for pollack will also have the opportunity to take part in a new scientific study led by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas).
The study will see collaboration between scientists and fishers to increase understanding about the stock structure of pollack.Fishers will catch pollack for use in the study, receiving payments for their initial training and for their participation in the study they will also be able to sell the pollack they have caught.
Applications, along with detailed eligibility criteria, will be open as soon as possible and enquiries should be directed to communications@cefas.gov.uk.
Last updated 18 April 2024 +show all updates
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Updated to include reference to the pollack compensation scheme as an additional support option.
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First published.