Workpackage 10: Synthesis National Synthesis: Ireland

Transcription

1 Workpackage 10: Synthesis National Synthesis: Ireland Coastal & Marine Resources Centre, Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Ireland. Trish Clayton, Valerie Cummins November 2003

2 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 2 CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION SUSTAINABILITY Environmental/ecological dimension Socio-economic dimension Community dimension Institutional dimension RESULTS Core problems in fisheries and fish farming Summary of the main factors Interactions between fish farming, coastal fisheries and other activities Decision making perspectives of fish farmers, fishermen and other community 46 members DISCUSSION/ SYNTHESIS Governance practices Recommendations.. 50 REFERENCES APPENDIX 1 53

3 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 3 1. Introduction Aquaculture throughout Europe is providing employment and money in coastal areas. Aquaculture accounts for 15% of fishery related jobs and of this 80% is in marine aquaculture. In Ireland marine aquaculture has grown from 5,815 tonnes, worth 3.3 million in 1980 to 39,980 tonnes worth 19.4 million in Creating a sustainable aquaculture industry in Europe, will help to provide employment in areas which were previously dependent on fishing. The Synthesis report aims to assess all the information gathered during the Aqcess project, and examines the sustainability of the study sites in relation to the ecology/ environment, socioeconomics, community and institutions. Two study sites have been chosen in Ireland: Bantry Bay in Co. Cork and a site in Co. Kerry extending from Kerry Head to Valentia Island (the Dingle Peninsula site). Both sites share certain geographic and demographic characteristics. Each site contains a long bay and the population is sparse in both sites (between 21 and 32 people per square kilometre). South west Kerry (Dingle) Bantry Bay Figure.1 Irish Study sites, source CMRC There is a long tradition of fishing throughout the region, with each site containing a nationally important fishing port (Castletownbere in Bantry Bay and Dingle Harbour in the Dingle Peninsula site). Aquaculture is present in each site. Shellfish farming is predominant in both

4 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 4 study sites. However, there is a significant contrast between the sites as Bantry bay has largescale intensive aquaculture operations, while the Dingle peninsula site has small-scale extensive aquaculture operations. Tourism (both land and marine based) is an extremely important source of revenue in both study sites. Other important income sources include agriculture, manufacturing industries, building construction, fish processing, sales and service industries, traditional craft industries and in Bantry bay, an oil terminal and stone quarry. The population densities in both study sites are below the national average. Data from the 1996 census indicates the population density of Ireland to be 53-individuals/ km 2, while for the Bantry Bay site this figure is 21.6-individuals/ km 2 and 32-individuals/ km 2 for the Dingle site. Dependence indicators for both sites are similar and higher than the national average. Senility indicators are similar for both study sites and are again higher than the national averages. There are large numbers of primary schools and secondary schools in both study sites, which cater for students between the ages of 4-18 years. However there is only one third level institute in the study area; Tralee Institute of Technology in the Dingle site. The transport infrastructure is improving slowly. Many of the main road systems are being upgraded e.g. Cork to Bantry, Killarney to Tralee. However the secondary roads are still in poor condition. The Bantry bay site is not serviced by the national train route, and in the Dingle site the train route ends in Tralee and does not extend any further into the study site. There is one airport in the Dingle study site, Farranfore airport which is approximately 30 minutes from Tralee in the Dingle site. This serves national routes and has flights from the U.K. The Bantry bay site is at least 1.5 hours drive from the airport near Cork city and the train station in Cork city. Health services in the study sites are under the control of the Southern Health Board. There are two general hospitals, one in each site, based in Bantry and Tralee. Tralee General hospital acts as a maternity hospital, while those in the Bantry Bay area must travel to the maternity hospitals in Cork city. For those living at the extremes of the study site such as Castletownbere in the Bantry bay site and Valentia island in the Dingle site, this can mean journeys of up to

5 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 5 two hours on poor secondary roads to reach the acute hospitals in Cork city. Castletownbere does have a community hospital, which mainly deals with elderly patients. Due to the restricted availability of third level education in the study sites, large proportions of students leave the area on completion of secondary school education to study in the larger cities around Ireland and abroad. Many graduates remain living in these larger cities on completion of their education, as there are greater employment opportunities and facilities than in the rural coastal villages. As a result, coastal communities in the study sites and around Ireland have experienced a decline in population in recent years. This report will examine the sustainability of coastal communities, using the study sites as examples. 1.1 Aims & Structure The aims of the Synthesis report are: to give an overview of the background information gathered during the initial reviews carried out; to combine the background information with the new information learned during the data gathering and analysis stage; to identify stakeholders from the fishing and aquaculture industries as well as other activities in the study sites; to carry out interviews with the stakeholders to gain further understanding of their role in the community and their views on the sustainability of fishing, aquaculture and the other activities in the area; to make recommendations to the EU on sustainability of aquaculture, fishing and coastal communities. 1.2 Material The initial reviews carried out were: Define- a review of the chosen study sites; Socioreview- a review of the employment in fisheries, aquaculture and other sectors, factors affecting labour mobility, legislation in fisheries and aquaculture and financial support available for fisheries and aquaculture development; Bioreview- a review of the fishing fleet structure, fishing activity, catches, discards, landings data, abundance and biodiversity surveys of the fish community;

6 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 6 Enviroreview- a review of the effects of aquaculture, fishing and other activities on the environmental quality of the study sites. The information gathered for the above reports identified gaps in the existing knowledge and further studies were then carried out: Biodata and Sociodata. The Biodata report focused on biological studies which have been carried out in the study sites. Sampling was not directly carried out by the CMRC and the Irish Biodata reports focus on research carried out by other institutions. Data was obtained from the Marine Institute, BIM (the Irish Sea Fisheries Board), EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), and other national agencies. The Sociodata report was based on questionnaires devised for the fishing, and aquaculture industries and also for local people. Closed questions which pertained to employment, education and on previous experience of the fishing and aquaculture industries were asked. Open-ended questions were also posed in the questionnaire. These allowed the interviewee an opportunity to express their opinion on whether local people, the tourist industry and government supported or valued the fishing and aquaculture industries. In total 250 questionnaires were carried out for the Sociodata report: 50 fishermen, 50 fish farmers and 150 local people (those not working in either fishing or aquaculture) were surveyed. The data gathered during Biodata and Sociodata was then analysed in the Bioanalysis and Socioanaylsis workpackages. For the Synthesis workpackage key interviews were carried out with stakeholders. Stakeholders were identified based on knowledge gained during the Define, Socioreview and Enviroreview workpackages. In total 18 structured interviews were carried out for both Irish study sites. Appendix one shows the questions asked of stakeholders. Those interviewed incorporated people working in the fishing and aquaculture industries, and those working in other sectors within the study sites (e.g. tourism, harbour commissioners) and institutions such as the Marine Institute, BIM, as well as environmental non-government organisations. These results were analysed, together with open-ended questions from the Sociodata questionnaire to identify problems in the fishing and aquaculture industries and any conflicts arising from the interactions of these industries with the other activities in the study sites. All stakeholders interviewed expressed an interest in attending a meeting to discuss the Synthesis report on its completion.

7 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 7 Chapter 2 of this report gives an overview of sustainability in the study sites from an environmental/ecological dimension, socio-economic dimension, community dimension and institutional dimension. Reports generated during previous workpackages are used as references for the chapters in this report, together with other relevant references. Chapter 3 then highlights conflicts or problematic issues identified during the open-ended questions and stakeholder interviews. Chapter 4 summarises governance practices and provides recommendations.

8 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 8 2. Sustainability: Overview of Coastal fisheries and aquaculture 2.1 Environmental/ ecological dimension Both Irish study sites are renowned as areas of scenic beauty; as a result tourism plays an important role in the local economy. Industry is present in both sites, with some heavy industry in the Bantry Bay site consisting of an oil terminal and a quarry. The environment in both study sites is seen as clean and the maintenance of a pristine environment is essential in such an area. Traditional activities such as fishing and farming are prominent in the area, adding to the attraction for tourists. The number of eco-friendly activities, such as bird watching, whale watching and walking, has increased in recent years, which, combined with beaches retaining blue flag status, further promotes the healthy state of the environment. The coastline in southwest Ireland is rocky, highly indented and characterised by long bays. Each study site has one of these bays (see Figure.1), and both are rias (drowned river valleys). Bantry Bay is the more enclosed of the two sites, which has implications for nutrient availability for shellfish culture. Ireland s western maritime climate is mainly influenced by the North Atlantic Drift. This current is a continuation of the Gulf Stream and bathes the west coast with relatively warm water. The winter surface temperature rarely falls below 9 O C. The tidal cycle occurs on a semi-diurnal basis. The prevailing wind is south westerly in direction. There is little significant difference in climate between the two sites. There are eighteen freshwater systems flowing into the waters around the Dingle Peninsula, eight of which flow northwards, and ten of which flow southward. There are eight freshwater systems in the Bantry Bay site, most of which are concentrated in the inner/upper region of the bay (Enviroreview). There is a long tradition of fishing in both sites. Bantry Bay has four official landing ports, with Castletownbere being of national significance. Castletownbere is the largest port in the study site and is important for whitefish landings in particular. It is a designated Fisheries Harbour Centre, and is under the direct management of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (DCMNR). The Dingle Peninsula site has seven official landings ports, with Dingle being nationally significant. Both study sites are located within ICES sector VIIj, known as the Great sole. Inshore fishing is mainly concentrated within 12 nautical miles (nm) and inshore vessels are generally less than

9 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 9 15m in length. Some inshore vessels fish outside the 12nm limit, which is the defined limit set by BIM (Bord Iascaigh Mhara, The Irish Sea Fisheries Board) for inshore vessels. To further complicate the issue, offshore boats (those larger than 15m in length), fish inside the 12nm limit. Fish landings are recorded by the DCMNR, but are not segregated into inshore and offshore landings. Logbooks must be completed daily for vessels fishing for quota species, however official landings are aggregated by port. Only vessels longer than 10m are required to complete log books. Landings are presented for the country as a whole and by port, for demersal, pelagic and shellfish, as well as individual fish species landings. Nationally pelagic landings dominate, accounting for 72% of the total landings between 1975 and 2000, but only 35% of the total value (Bioreview). Figure.2 below shows national landings from 1976 to The decrease in landings following 1996 reflects the decrease in fish stocks. This is mainly observed in the pelagic fleet, with demersal and shellfish landings remaining relatively stable over the duration of the time period examined. Aquaculture is present in both sites with large-scale intensive mussel culture in the Bantry Bay site, as well as salmonid culture. The Dingle site has mainly extensive shellfish (mussel and oyster) culture. Both sites host a variety of smaller aquaculture farms. Abalone and Urchins are produced in Bantry Bay, on an experimental scale. Scallops, clams, and abalone are produced in the Dingle Peninsula site. There is a land-based freshwater trout farm in the Dingle site. Figure.3 shows aquaculture production from 1980 to This shows that aquaculture production has increased significantly in since 1980 and there has been a corresponding increase in value of the landings.

10 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Tonnes Total Demersal Pelagic Shellfish Figure.2 Fish Landings in Ireland, , source: DCMNR. Volume (t) 70,000 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10, Year Figure.3 Aquaculture production in Ireland, , source: BIM , , ,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 Value ( '000) Volume (t) Value ( '000) The environmental quality of the study sites is in general quite good. Of the freshwater catchments in the study sites, all in the Bantry Bay site were classified unpolluted in Twelve of the rivers in the Dingle site were classified unpolluted in 2000, while two were slightly polluted, three were moderately polluted and the remaining river was seriously polluted. This river (River Lee) is classified as eutrophic (Enviroreview).

11 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 11 There is a wide variety of industry in both study sites, which have obtained licences to allow discharge of waste products. Much of this waste enters the sewage system and is disposed of along with other waste products. The populations of the study sites are concentrated in the larger towns and villages. In the summer, the populations of these towns and villages increase significantly. The resulting increase puts pressure on the waste and water treatment systems. The Dingle site has a number of primary and secondary treatment facilities. The Bantry site is in the process of building a plant capable of primary treatment. Up to now all sewage entered the bay near a traditional swimming location. The use of septic tanks is widespread throughout the study sites as many homes are in remote locations (Enviroreview). Studies on contaminant loads in the study sites have found them to be below detection limits. High concentrations of TBT have been found in Bantry bay, with highest levels in Glengarriff Harbour, Castletownbere Harbour, the Leahill Terminal and Bantry Harbour. These four sites are perhaps the busiest as regards boat traffic. The use of TBT as an antifoulant was banned in 1987 on vessels smaller than 25m in length and on aquaculture installations. Concentrations of copper, zinc and lead were found to be high in Tralee bay (the Dingle Peninsula site), which is believed to be residues from an electroplating industry in the 1970 s (Enviroreview). Major oil spills have occurred in the past in Bantry Bay. The terminal closed following a major disaster in 1979 and reopened in In the interim period the mussel farming industry has developed within inner Bantry bay. An oil spill today could have serious implications for the environment as well as the fishing, aquaculture and tourism industries (Enviroreview). There is concern to the aquaculture industry and biologists about the discharge of ballast water from commercial ships. As this is taken on board in the country of origin, the concern relates to the possibility of alien species entering Irish waters. Ballast water must be discharged while out at sea, and the discharge of such water is prevented in Bantry bay (Enviroreview). Agriculture is one of the major activities in the study sites. A change in farming practice in recent times has increased the potential for run-off and leaching of animal manures, compound fertilisers and silage liquor. The Lee estuary in Tralee bay is seriously polluted due to run-off and the discharge of untreated organic effluent (Enviroreview).

12 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 12 The Enviroreview report highlighted marine litter on the shore as a source of pollution, from land-based and sea-based sources. More exposed beaches have litter from sea-based sources and beaches/coasts near urban areas are more likely to have litter from land-based sources. Algal blooms occur frequently in the study sites, particularly in Bantry Bay. This results in the closure of the bay to shellfish harvesting, as many of the blooms are toxic. The south-west region is influenced by the Gulf Stream. Blooms occur naturally and are difficult to prevent. Regular monitoring is carried out to prevent toxic algae entering the food chain. A number of these toxins can have quite serious impacts on humans, causing e.g. DSP (diarrhetic shellfish poisoning), PSP (paralytic shellfish poisoning) and ASP (amnesiac shellfish poisoning). Foam caused by the blooms can result in the closure of beaches (Enviroreview). As mentioned previously there are a number of fishing ports within each of the study sites. The fishing industry has potential to pollute the environment in a number of ways. Fishing vessels can be the cause of localised oil spills, either accidentally or following impacts with other vessels, natural features. They may be sources of marine litter. Fish boxes and discarded fishing nets are frequently washed up on coasts. Aquaculture in Bantry Bay has a significant visible impact, particularly in the inner bay, where the majority of mussel rafts are situated. Most mussel farms have begun to change the colour of the barrels to grey. The salmon cages are located in more remote areas of the bay and are not as visually intrusive. While mussel farming does not require the addition of either feed or chemicals such as antibiotics to the water, salmon farming on the other hand does. Feed must be used, antifoulants are applied to the cage surfaces, dyes are included to turn the flesh pink and antibiotics & vaccines are administered. The addition of such chemicals to any environment is not desirable. Maintaining low stock densities in salmon cages can reduce the incidence of disease, stress and mortalities. The build up of sediment under cages can act as a reservoir for these chemicals, which would otherwise disperse in water. A build up of sediment is found beneath, and in the vicinity of, mussel lines. This accumulation of waste over time will result in the development of an anoxic layer, low dissolved oxygen content of the water, and hydrogen sulphide emissions. The impact of organic enrichment can be localised or widespread, depending on the rates of tidal flushing (Enviroreview).

13 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 13 Salmon can potentially escape from the cages and this can have serious consequences for the wild salmon population. The genetic diversity of the wild population can be compromised, escapees are known to enter rivers later than wild salmon, and can over cut the redds of wild salmon when spawning. There is the risk that farmed salmon will spread diseases to the wild population (Enviroreview). There is the question of whether the sites are sustainable for fishing and aquaculture. Commercial fish stocks in Ireland, as well as worldwide, are declining due to overfishing. As can be seen in Figure.2 above, there has been a decline in total landings in Ireland since Landings in the study sites show similar negative patterns to the Irish landings, particularly in Dingle and Castletownbere. The aquaculture industry in the Dingle study site appears to be sustainable. The aquaculture activities harvest mussels and oysters from naturally occurring beds. The production figures declined dramatically in the early 1990 s due to high levels of predation, but these figures are stabilising. Natural harvesting methods benefit the environment by preventing the build-up of sediment, which is a positive factoring the assessment of the sustainable nature of the aquaculture industry there. It could be argued that aquaculture in the Bantry Bay site is sustainable at present, but the tentative balance could be negated by increased development of aquaculture facilities in the inner bay. The inner bay has probably reached its carrying capacity for aquaculture production, and if further mussel lines were to be introduced, the outer bay may be a more suitable option. This would reduce conflict with other users of the inner bay and alleviate pressure on the environment of the inner bay. Concern has been expressed for the sustainability of high mussel production rates as nitrogen is removed by the mussel harvest or locked up in the sediment. The increased incidence of red tides is of concern as this results in the closure of the industry on a regular basis. There is evidence that mussels are taking longer to reach market size.

14 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Socio-economic dimension An overview of the socio-economic profile of the Irish study sites is provided below. This information has been taken from the Socioreview report. There is additional information on the demographic characteristics of the local population, the fishing industry and the aquaculture industry taken from the Sociodata and Socioanalysis workpackages. The population in the study sites, taken from the 1996 national census, is 12,511 in the Dingle site and 9,471 in the Bantry bay site (Socioreview). In the Dingle site, 23% are aged 0-14, 20.7% are aged 15-29, 19.4% are aged 30-44, 21.2% are aged and 15.6% are aged 65 and over. In the Bantry site, 22% are aged 0-14, 19.6% are aged 15-29, 20.2% are aged 30-44, 21.7% are aged and 16.6% are aged 65 and over. The population density of both study sites is below the national population density values. The age structure is similar in both sites, which is reflected in the dependence indicators (Ratio of individuals aged under 15 and over 65 years to individuals between 15 and 65 years), at 63.1% in the Dingle site and 62.2% in the Bantry site. The dependence indicators are higher in the study sites than the national average. Figures 4 and 5 below show the populations of each of the study sites by age and gender. It can be seen that there are more males than females in all age classes, except for the age 65+ category. This is the same in both sites Population numbers and over Age group Males Females Figure.4 Population by age and gender (Dingle site). Source: (Central Statistics Office, 1996).

15 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Population numbers Males Females and over Age group Figure.5 Population by age and gender (Bantry Bay site). Source: (Central Statistics Office, 1996). There is little difference between the sites in the education profile for males and females. Approximately 5% more males than females in both sites have primary education (up to 12 years of age). More females than male have second level and third level education. Instruction in the Irish language is compulsory in most primary and secondary schools. This is particularly relevant in the Dingle site as it includes Gaeltacht areas, where only Irish is spoken. There is only one third level institution in the study sites: the Institute of Technology in Tralee, in the Dingle site. Many students must move to the larger cities of Cork, Limerick, Galway and Dublin to complete their education. BIM run a training college in Castletownbere in the Bantry site. FETAC certified courses are provided for the fishing and aquaculture industries. Safety courses are provided. Total employment figures (1996) for the study sites are 3,259 in the Bantry site and 4,071 in the Dingle site. Historically agriculture and fishing were important employers in the study sites. In recent times, the development of the tourism and manufacturing industries has provided alternative sources of employment. The inshore fishing sector in Ireland employs 3,700 fishermen, of which 2,700 are employed full-time. The BIM report from 1999 indicates that 718 inshore fishermen are employed in Co. Cork and 464 in Co. Kerry. Census data from 1996 indicates that 684 people in the Bantry bay

16 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 16 site and 815 people in the Dingle site were employed in agriculture (which includes farming, fishing and forestry workers). This indicates that agriculture accounts for 21% and 20% of employment in the Bantry bay and Dingle sites respectively. Data from the Bantry Bay Charter in 2001 indicates that between people are employed in aquaculture on a seasonal basis in Bantry bay, however comparable figures are not available for the Dingle site. These employment figures do not take into account those employed in service industry related jobs. The collapse of either of these industries could have a devastating effect on the local community. In the current climate where the fishing industry is under increasing pressure, this does not bode well for the continued employment of people in the industry. The unemployment figures in the study sites are higher than the national average. This is primarily due to the greater opportunities in the larger cities and towns. The Dingle site has an unemployment rate of 17.7%, while the Bantry site has an unemployment rate of 11.6% (Socioreview) Demographic Characteristics The results from the Sociodata questionnaires carried out in the study sites gave an insight into the demographic characteristics. All fishermen surveyed for the questionnaire were male. Approximately 66% were married, while the most common age range was Fishermen are mostly self-employed, with some part-time employment. In relation to education, 26% of fishermen did not have any formal education qualifications, 46% have achieved junior or leaving certificate level education (Sociodata). The majority of those surveyed in the aquaculture industry (90%) were male. Approximately 72% were married. The most common age range was The majority of fish farmers were full-time workers (72%). In contrast with the fishing industry, only 4% did not have formal school qualifications, while 48% had completed junior certificate or leaving certificate level education (Sociodata). There was an almost even division in the number of male and females surveyed in the local population. Approximately 58% were married, with the most common age range. With respect to education, 4% of the local population had no formal school education; 34% had

17 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 17 completed secondary school education; 18% had completed diplomas after leaving school; while a further 35% had completed university degrees (Sociodata) Labour mobility The questionnaires attempted to identify whether local people, and those working in the fishing and aquaculture industries had worked in the industries in the past, and whether they would be willing to work in either fishing or fish farming in the future. Fishing and aquaculture represent two important employers in coastal communities and the extent to which people are willing to work in these industries is an important factor for the economic and social sustainability of coastal communities. In relation to the fishing industry, 32% of local people had worked as a fisherman, while 30% of fish farmers had worked previously as a fisherman. Of the local population, 26% were willing to work as fishermen in the future, while 25% of fish farmers would be prepared to work in the fishing industry. Older individuals were found to be more willing to work in the industry than younger people. Single people were found to be more willing to work in the fishing industry. Individuals were most likely to exit the fishing industry if the earnings of the rest of the household were high and if the individual had training (Socioanalysis). In relation to past movements from the aquaculture industry, 15% of the local population had worked previously as fish farmers, and 14% of fishermen had worked previously as fish farmers. A similar number (28%) of the local population would be willing to work in the aquaculture industry in the future to those prepared to work in the fishing industry. However less fishermen (only 18% of those questioned) would be willing to work in the aquaculture industry in the future. Older individuals were more willing to work in the aquaculture industry. Individuals were less willing to work in the aquaculture industry the higher their annual income (Socioanalysis) Geographical mobility The Sociodata survey asked whether individuals were prepared to move to another area to continue their job. This assessed their attachment to the area in which they live. The majority of fishermen (92%) would not be prepared to move to another area to continue fishing. Approximately 70% of those working in the aquaculture industry would not consider

18 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 18 moving to another area to continue working in the industry. The factors found to influence an individuals decision to move to another area were age and number of children. Older individuals were less keen to relocate as well as individuals with higher numbers of dependent children (Socioanalysis) percent Fishing Aquaculture 0 Yes No Maybe Figure.6 Geographical Mobility among fishermen and aquaculture workers Earnings The average household income band for those working in the fishing industry, the aquaculture industry and for local people was band 5 ( 22,200-25,400). However, the hourly earnings differed between the three sectors: the average hourly earnings for the local people were higher than the fishing and aquaculture industries ( 10-15), whereas for fishermen the average range was 8-10, and 6-8 in the aquaculture industry (Sociodata) Double-Jobbing The incidence of those working in the fishing and aquaculture industries having a second job is important in coastal communities. It provides them with sufficient income to continue to live in the locality thus ensuring the sustainability of the community. The survey revealed that 40% of the aquaculture workers had a second income, while 36% of the fishermen had a second income. Of the aquaculture workers with a second income, fishing and farming were the most common occupations. The additional jobs held by fishermen included working in the

19 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 19 tourist industry, farming and being self-employed (Sociodata). The main factor found to influence whether an individual from the aquaculture or fishing industries had a second job was their income. The higher the income from fishing or aquaculture, the less likely the individual was to have a second income (Socioanalysis) percent 60 Yes No Fishing Aquaculture Other jobs Figure.7 Percentage of individuals who have a second job.

20 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Community dimension Population numbers in the study sites are relatively low, and many of those living in the area have lived there for generations. There is a strong sense of community cohesion, which is enhanced by the church, the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) and community associations or development groups. The church has strong links with the fishing industry in particular and each year the ceremony of the blessing of the boats is held, e.g. in Castletownbere and in Dingle. The GAA is the national body responsible for games such as gaelic football, hurling, handball, rounders and camogie. Gaelic football and hurling are extremely popular in all coastal communities. Games against rival communities will result in attendance by large proportions of the community. Community associations and other development groups such as local heritage/ historical groups, tourism promotion groups and other voluntary groups promote cohesion of the community. Competitions such as Tidy Towns need the support and participation of all members of the community to ensure the town/ village is successful. Gaeltachts represent the country s culture and heritage and are held in high esteem. The Dingle site has a large Gaeltacht community. In general outside of the Gaeltacht areas, while Irish is compulsory at school level, the ability of many adults to speak Irish is lost upon leaving school due to lack of usage in adulthood. There are a number of foreign nationals living in both study sites, in particular from the UK, Germany and Holland. These are still referred to as blow-ins, despite having lived in the area for, in some cases, decades. Some of these individuals have become involved in the traditional or home industries, such as cheese making, cakes, honey etc. All these products are sold locally and are often sold to tourists. As a result these individuals have an important role to play in the sustainability of the community, not only in terms of population numbers, but their support of the local economy and provision of ethnic/religious diversity. One of the main reasons given by those surveyed for entering the fishing industry was family tradition (Sociodata). It was one of the main reasons they stayed working in the fishing industry. However, the younger generation is moving away from working in these traditional

21 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 21 activities. Quite often they do not remain in the coastal areas and instead move to the large cities. The level of hardship of the job, and low income associated with these activities has resulted in crew shortages in the ports in the study sites. Groups such as Mná na Mara (Women of the Sea), an organisation formed to support fishermen and the fishing industry, have a large membership in the study sites and strongly support the industry. The arrival of the aquaculture industry has introduced a new source of employment to the study sites. This has support from the community due to the employment given, however community members do not wish to see the traditional fishing activity pushed out to accommodate aquaculture (Synthesis interviews). They do appreciate that aquaculture provides an alternative source of employment, not only directly in the industry but also in the supporting industries.

22 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Institutional dimension Currently legislation is governed in the study sites at three levels: locally, nationally and by EU law. All national and local authorities follow European Union laws and regulations. Locally, Cork County Council and Kerry County Council are the authorities responsible for delivery of objectives of the Department of the Environment and Local Government. The functions are mainly concerned with the physical environment, environmental management and control. They are responsible for the drawing up of County Development Plans to deal with physical, economic and social development within their respective counties. The Harbour Commissioners are responsible for harbour operations, maintenance and provision of proper facilities in each of the harbours in the study site. There are Harbour Commissioners in Bantry, Castletownbere, Dingle, Tralee and Fenit within the study sites. Nationally, various Government Departments are responsible for their remits within the study sites. The main Departments with particular local responsibilities are the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (DoCMNR), the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (DAHGI) and the Department of Environment and Local Government (DoELG). A number of state agencies are involved in governing practices such as the Environmental Protection Agency, the Marine Institute, BIM (the Irish Sea Fisheries Board), the Heritage Council, Dúchas and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, An Taisce, the South Western Regional Fisheries Board (SWRFB) etc. A number of institutions are common to both study sites (EPA, Marine Institute, BIM, Duchas, SWRFB), while others are only found in one or the other of the study sites (Cork County Council, Kerry County Council). Fishing and Aquaculture Legislation The principle legislation regarding sea fisheries matters in Ireland is the Fisheries Consolidation Act 1959, under which EC regulations relating to conservation and management of fisheries are enforced. Many of the national policies relating to fishing aim to balance the objectives of the EU Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). National Technical Conservation Measures (TCMs) provide enabling mechanisms for the fishing regulations defined by the CFP. The present TCMs were set down in Regulation 850/98 (1998), there have been six amendments since then. The licensing of aquaculture in Ireland is governed by the Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1997 (No. 23), as amended by the Fisheries and Foreshore (Amendment Act, 1998 (No. 54)

23 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 23 [Fisheries (Amendment) Bill, 2000]. This provides for consultation with the public and with expert organisations on all licence applications, and for a right of appeal to the independent statutory Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board against Ministerial decisions to license or to refuse to license. Table.1: Fishing and Aquaculture Legislation Conventions Directives National Legislation 1983 Common Fisheries Policy (CFP); Convention on Biological Diversity (1992); UN Convention on the Law of the Sea UNCLOS (1994); UN agreement on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks (1995); Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic (OSPAR Convention, 1997); Convention on International trade in Endangered Species of Wild fauna and Flora (CITES) EU regulation (3626/82 EEC). Shellfish Waters Harbours Act 1946; Directive (79/923/EEC), Fisheries Acts, Surface Waters 2000; (shellfish) classification Fishery Harbour Centres regulations 1997, and Acts, ; Surface Waters Foreshore Acts, 1933 to (shellfish) Directions 1998; 1997; Marine Institute Act, Shellfish Hygiene 1991; Directive (91/492/EEC) Continental Shelf Act, and Food Safety (Live 1968; Bivalve Molluscs and Maritime Jurisdiction Act, other shellfish) Regulations 1992; EC Directives 91/492 and 91/493 Shellfish Waters toxin monitoring; EC Directive 91/67 Restrictions on movement of Shellfish. 1959; Whale Fisheries Act, 1937; Quality of Shellfish Waters Regulations, Common Fisheries Policy The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the European Union's instrument for the management of fisheries and aquaculture. In 1970, the first rules on access to fishing grounds, markets and structures were set in the common measures of the fishing sector. A coastal band was reserved

24 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 24 for local fishermen who have traditionally fished these areas, in order to ensure that smaller vessels could continue to fish close to their home ports. The CFP was fully implemented in 1983 after much negotiation, taking into account the biological, economic and social dimension of fishing. The common measures were agreed in four main areas: Conservation - regulation and control of fish catches; Structures - aid the adaptation of equipment and organisations from the fishing and aquaculture industries; Markets - maintain a common organisation of the market in fish products and to match supply and demand for the benefit of both producers and consumers; Relations with the outside world - set up fisheries agreements and negotiate at the international level for common conservation measures in deep-sea fisheries. The first review of the CFP took place in It was found that overfishing cannot be prevented through technical measures and control alone if there are too many vessels for the available resources. The link between the component parts of the CFP was reinforced to increase its effectiveness. New technologies and control measures were (and are) being developed to ensure that fishing regulation rules are respected throughout the country (European Union, 2002). The Irish Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources set up a Strategy Review Group on the Common Fisheries Policy in December 1998, in order to develop strategies and policies for the 2002 review of the CFP. A report by the group on Proposals and recommendations for the review of the CFP 2002, the sixth document published by the review group, was presented to the Minister in November The proposals outline the need for a far seeing approach to technical conservation measures, allowing young fish a chance to grow and replicate. It emphasises that better control and enforcement is required for these measures to work, and that the Irish fishing industry is ready for such increased enforcement across the Community in the interests of flourishing stocks (Irish National Strategy Review Group on the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), 2000). The report covered 12 main areas: socio-economic importance of the industry, access and the acts of accession, allocation of fishing rights, structures, marketing,

25 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 25 technical conservation measures, control and enforcement, third country agreements, aquaculture, the environment, research, and regionalisation. Quality of Shellfish and Shellfish Waters Under the EC Shellfish Waters Directive (79/923/EEC) member States are required to monitor designated shellfish waters to ensure that the quality of the edible species is maintained or enhanced. The Quality of Shellfish Water Regulations 1994 transposes the requirements of the EC Council Directive into Irish law. Similarly, due to the rapid expansion of the Irish shellfish industry, shellfish production areas are classified by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in order to enforce the EC Directive laying down the health conditions for the production and the placing on the market of live bivalve molluscs (EC Directive 91/67). The water quality classification categories, A, B, and C, correspond with the criteria as laid down in the directive. Since 1984, the Marine Institute s Fisheries Research Centre has operated a national monitoring programme for detecting phycotoxins, from planktonic algae, in shellfish. Samples are collected regularly from all shellfish production areas, and are monitored using a laboratory bioassay. If toxin results are found to be positive in a production area, restrictions on the harvesting and sale of the shellfish are put in place corresponding to Directive 91/492/EEC on shellfish hygiene. Water Quality and Waste Disposal There is an extensive amount of national legislation dealing with water quality in Ireland. Many of the acts described in this section provide enabling legislation for policies agreed at international and European level. There have been significant improvements in waste management in Ireland since 1995 due to the implementation of the Waste Management Act (1996) and Integrated Pollution Control Licensing (EPA, 2000). Local planning policies reflect compliance with the EU Urban WasteWater Treatment Directive, and efforts are being made at all levels to improve water quality for the benefit of local communities, aquatic life, and tourism and recreation.

26 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 26 Table.2: Water Quality and Waste Disposal Legislation Conventions Directives National Legislation UN Convention on the Law of the Sea UNCLOS (1994); Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic (OSPAR Convention, 1997). International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78) Dangerous Substance Environment Protection Directive (76/464/EEC) and Paris Convention 1974; Directive on Waste Disposal (75/442/EEC); Directive on Disposal of Waste Oil (87/101/EEC); Directive on Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Polychlorinated Terphenyls (96/59/EEC); Integrated Pollution Control (96/61/EEC) and Pollution Prevention Control Act (1999); Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC); Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (97/27/EEC); Water Framework Directive 2000; Bathing Waters Directive (76/160/EEC); EC Directive on Environmental Impact Assesment (97/11/EC). Agency Act, 1992; Waste Management Act, 1996; Harbours Acts, 1936 and 1996; Air Pollution Act, 1987; Radiological Protection Act, 1991; Sea Pollution Act, 1991; Sea Pollution Amendment Act, 1999; Dumping at Sea Act, 1996; Oil Pollution of the Sea (Civil Liability and Compensation) Acts, 1988 to 1998; Merchant Shipping (Salvage and Wreck) Act, 1993; The Local Government (Water Pollution) Acts, Sea Pollution Act, 1991 (No. 27 of 1991) The Sea Pollution Act, 1991, enables the Minister for the Marine to prohibit or regulate the operational discharge of oil or oily mixtures from Irish registered ships anywhere at sea or from other ships in the territorial waters of the State. It further enables the Minister to require an Irish registered ship to be constructed, fitted or operated in such a way as to prevent control

27 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 27 or reduce discharges into the sea. The main purpose of this act is to enable Ireland to ratify MARPOL (Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution from Ships). ( EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) The EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) came into force in December 2000, establishing a new framework for Community action in the field of water policy. The WFD takes a holistic approach, addressing inland surface and transitional waters, estuarine and coastal waters and groundwater. A co-ordinated approach will therefore be required for the implementation of programmes and measures to achieve the objectives of the Directive. A 15- year period is allowed to each Member State, by which time the state must ensure compliance. Objectives of the Directive include: The protection and enhancement of the status of aquatic ecosystems (and terrestrial ecosystems and wetlands directly dependent on aquatic ecosystems); Provision for enhanced protection and improvement of the aquatic environment by reducing / phasing out of discharges, emissions and losses of priority substances; Protection of territorial and marine waters, and Establishing a register of protected areas e.g. areas designated for protection of habitats or species. The WFD is based on the river basin as the natural unit for management, and will require the development of River Basin Management Plans. As the competent authority, under the Articles of the WFD the Central Fisheries Board is required to: Ensure that a River Basin Management Plan is produced for each River Basin District lying entirely within their territory at least nine years after the date of entry into force of this Directive (i.e. July 2000). Ireland has been developing a comprehensive, catchment-based national strategy towards combating eutrophication in rivers and lakes since Through the help of EU Cohesion Fund support, major monitoring and management projects were established for key water bodies throughout the country. This successful catchment-based strategy is currently being extended to include groundwaters, estuaries and coastal waters. There are five regional River Basin Districts for which local authorities are establishing projects. These projects aim to provide much of the basic data for river basin management plans under the WFD (Dempsey,

28 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis ). The two study sites for the Aqcess project fall into the South Western Basin District, for which Cork County Council is responsible. Proposals for the development of river basin management systems are currently under review. The WFD is moving towards ecological quality by incorporating within its environmental objectives quality in biology, hydrology, morphology and chemistry. As well as maintaining water quality, the objectives specifically refer to protecting ecosystems: Protect ecosystems and achieve compliance with any standards and objectives for protected areas (e.g. areas designated for protection of habitats/ species). Measures adopted must include: Reviewing human activity on the status of the waters. The WFD is viewed by the EC as part of the mechanism within which to adopt Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM). Its application to waters up to one nautical mile offshore goes some way to minimising the current sectoral approach to water quality and biological quality management. In Ireland, the EPA is the regulatory body charged with competence in implementing the WFD. The WFD uses biological communities as long-term indicators of health of the water. This will be a particular challenge in estuarine and coastal waters. The WFD is regarded as the most important legal stimulus at EU level for integrated planning, both coastal and inland. The Commission will produce detailed guidelines for Member States, indicating how policies related to coastal zones can be incorporated into river basin management plans. Water Services Bill Facilitating the future establishment of such management plans is the pending release of new draft legislation, aiming to overhaul the existing regulatory environment for water services and procurement in the Republic of Ireland. The Water Services Bill, due to be released in the coming months, will consolidate and modernise the existing large and diverse body of water services legislation which currently extends back to the nineteenth century. It will provide for joint plans covering all or part of combined water services authority areas in anticipation of the establishment of river basin management districts under the EU Water Framework Directive.

29 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 29 The main points of the proposed water services bill include: The setting up of a national water services authority to oversee investment of about four billion euros over the course of the National Development Plan ( ); The introduction of a licensing system for all group water schemes; The national rural water monitoring committee to be put on a statutory basis; Improved management of city and county council water schemes; The consolidation and modernisation of diverse legislation dating from the 1800s. Under the proposals for the new water services authority, group water schemes must ensure that EU standards for drinking water are met, or else face closure. The authority will have an important role in monitoring municipal drinking water and sewage services, and will have an inspecting role similar to that of the EPA (Irish Times, Sept 15th 2001). Environmental Protection Irelands nature conservation policies in recent years have focused on the identification, designation and conservation of protected areas. This arose from the need to protect sites designated under EU regulations on wild birds and habitat protection. In Ireland, the Wildlife Act of 1976, updated by the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, is the foundation legislation for the protection of flora and fauna. For example, all cetaceans in Irish waters are protected under the 1976 Wildlife Act and in 1991 the Irish government declared the Irish economic exclusion zone a whale and dolphin sanctuary. In addition, cetaceans are protected by European legislation and are listed Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive. There has been increased awareness towards the preservation of Irelands historic environment, which is primarily covered by the Heritage Act 1995, and is recognised by the local County Development Plans. Legislation dealing with waste disposal and water pollution, such as the Water Framework Directive, also play an important part in environmental protection (Section 3.1.2).

30 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 30 Table.3: Environmental Protection Legislation Conventions Directives National Legislation Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment of the Northeast Atlantic (OSPAR Convention, 1997); Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (1984); Convention on Biological Diversity (1992); UNCLOS (1994); Washington Global Programme of Action for the Protection of the Marine Environment from Landbased Activities (UNEP, 1995); Bonn Convention (1979); Bern Convention (1979); UN agreement on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks (1995); FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (1995); Convention on International trade in Endangered Species of Wild fauna and Flora (CITES) EU regulation (3626/82 EEC). Directive on the Conservation of Wild birds (97/49/EEC) Special Protection Areas (SPAs); Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) and the Conservation (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1994; Directive on Other Substances: Protection of the Aquatic Environment of the Community (76/464/EEC); Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive (2001/42/EC); Birds Directive (79/409/EEC); Council Directive 96/82/EC, the Control of Major Accident Hazards Involving Dangerous Substances (COMAH). Environment Protection Agency Act, 1992; Wildlife Act, 1976 and Wildlife Amendment Bill, 1999; Heritage Act, 1995; Irish whale and dolphin sanctuary declaration 1991; European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations,1989 and Amendment Regulations 1994; Foreshore Acts, ; Continental Shelf Act Wildlife Act and Wildlife Amendment Act The Wildlife Act, 1976, the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 and the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997 is the most important legislation on nature conservation in Ireland is the. The national, European and global designations are administered by Dúchas, the national statutory conservation body. The national designation in Ireland, the National Heritage Area (NHA) is currently a proposed designation, replacing the earlier Area of Scientific Interest (ASI). All other national, European and global nature designations overlap with and are subsets of the NHA designations. The Wildlife Amendment Act was finally enacted in December 2000, providing a legal basis for the protection of NHAs, SACs (Special Areas of Conservation) and SPAs (Special Protection Areas). The geographic locations and coverages of NHAs, SACs and SPAs are available in digital format from

31 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 31 A recent report carried out for the DoCMNR (DoCMNR, undated) recommends a major expansion in aquaculture to encourage potential growth in value of 305% by The government is committed to an ambitious programme over the coming years with funding allocated to aquaculture development under the NDP amounting to 26.5 million. Some conflict may therefore arise between the designation of aquaculture sites and conservation sites. Dúchas is currently compiling conservation plans for SPAs, taking into account all activities within each site. An aquaculture zoning plan will be included for any sites that include shellfish farming, with the aim of minimising the environmental impacts while allowing for development. In Ireland, the legislation and management structure for environmental protection of the coastline is often insufficient. The Irish Government is under increasing pressure from the European Commission, and from national and international NGOs, to uphold its duty to protect the environment while facilitating sustainable development. BIM, the Irish Sea Fisheries Board, operates CLAMS (Co-ordinated Local Aquaculture Management System) for management of aquaculture in the bays around Ireland. Its overall aim is to improve environmental compliance, product quality and consumer confidence in the product. It aims to implement national policies at a local bay level. CLAMS will work in conjunction BIM s Inshore Fisheries Committee. The concept is that the local CLAMS group will formulate an aquaculture development plan for the bay, having gathered all relevant baseline data. CLAMS provides an opportunity for local groups to become involved in their bay, and provides a process whereby any conflicts arising can be aired. CLAMS is in operation in nine bays around the Irish coast, including Castlemaine Harbour in the Dingle Peninsula site. BIM maintains offices in Castletownbere, as well as the Fishery Training Centre. Sea Fisheries officers and Aquaculture Development staff are employed by the agency in Cork and Kerry to promote development of the industries.

32 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Results 3.1 Core problems in fisheries and fish farming Problems in the fishing and aquaculture industries were identified during the review and analysis workpackages, as well as during the key interviews with the stakeholders. The problems identified are highlighted in the following section The fishing industry Decline in fish stocks Identified: Bioreview, Stakeholder interviews Fish stocks worldwide are declining and the fish stocks in Irish waters are not an exception. Scientists have expressed concern over the decrease in fish stocks and have called for catches to be reduced dramatically to prevent a crash in the fishing industry. This has resulted in a reduction in quotas, changes in fishing seasons etc. which have adversely affected the Irish fishing industry in a number of ways. The EU has introduced new measures to reduce quotas, days at sea etc. Irish fishermen, both offshore and inshore, have argued and protested that their share of the quotas is unreasonable. Fishermen in the northwest of the country are already limited by the number of days they can spend at sea. Prices for fish are at historically low prices this year in Ireland. Imports of fish into the EU at very low prices from countries such as Chile, Namibia, Iceland and the Faroe Islands, has resulted in increased competition for fish prices. Irish fishermen cannot compete with these cheaper prices and increasing costs of obtaining insurance for vessels are crippling many in the industry. Irish fishermen are concerned over the potential opening of the Irish Box. The Irish Box is a 50-mile zone around the Irish coast, which is considered one of the most important spawning and nursery grounds within EU waters. At present only 40 Spanish vessels are allowed enter the box at any one time, however Spain was told when it joined the EU in 1986, they would be allowed fish the Irish Box from In the meantime, fish stocks have declined and Irish fishermen fear that an influx of Spanish vessels will result in a collapse of the fishing industry. MEP s voted to continue the existing protection of the Irish Box in June 2003.

33 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 33 In October 2003, a new Irish Conservation Box (ICB) was identified by EU fisheries ministers. This box is one-third the size of the original Irish Box, and stretches from Waterford Harbour to Slyne Head, along the southwest coast of Ireland (Figure.8). It comprises as area of more than 100,000 square kilometres. A major feature of the ICB is that is follows 200m contour on its western side. The ICB recognises the biological sensitivity and commercial importance of the waters around Ireland. The new regulations (ICB) will come into force in mid The fishing industry is reported to be satisfied with the new regulations. Figure.8 New Irish Conservation Box (Green Shade), Irish EEZ (Green Line); Irish Box (Dashed Line), source Marine Institute.

34 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 34 A number of the fish stocks targeted by inshore fishermen are governed by quotas such as herring, mackerel, horse mackerel, sole, plaice, cod, hake, monk and megrim. Management systems for non-quota species relates primarily to bivalves and are implemented by cooperatives. Currently only vessels over 10m are required to keep logbooks of their catches. Inshore fleet Identified: Bioreview, Socioreview, Stakeholder Interviews Inshore vessels are those classified as those who fish within 12 nm of the shore, with an overall length of less than 15 metres. However these vessels may fish outside the 12nm limit, while the larger offshore vessels fish within the 12nm limit. In total 38% of inshore vessels are registered, 16% of offshore and a further 46% are applying to register (BIM, 1999). There are 393 inshore vessels in Co. Cork (which includes the Bantry bay site) and 250 in Co, Kerry (including the Dingle site). This accounts for 21% and 14% of the national total respectively. The Irish fishing fleet is quite old. The 1999 BIM study on the Irish Inshore Fisheries Sector indicated that 90% of all inshore vessels were constructed before Only 4% have been built since 1985 (based on vessels registered in 1998). The mean age of the fishermen was found to be years for crew and close to 40 years for skippers. Many of those interviewed for the BIM study were concerned over the low level of young people entering the industry. Low profitability of inshore fishing Identified: Socioreview, Sociodata, Stakeholder Interviews Incomes generated from inshore fishing are not substantial. The offshore fleet is developing in Ireland and these newer, larger vessels can remain at sea for longer periods of time. Inshore boats can often only get to sea for a few days at most and must remain ashore in bad weather. This results in a loss of earnings for fishermen. As a result, a number of fishermen double job. The sporadic nature of fishing allows them to maintain a second job, which guarantees them a steady income, while allowing them to fish if the weather is suitable. It may be necessary for inshore fishermen to diversify and combine another activity for example ecotours or fishing trips with fishing in order to maintain a suitable standard of living. The Marine Institute socio-economic study of fisheries in counties Cork, Kerry, Donegal and Galway (O Donnchadha, O Callaghan and Niland, 2000) stated,

35 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 35 If the fishing community goes, there will be nothing left except empty space and tourist holiday homes. The two occupations (farming and fishing) are inextricably and symbiotically linked in Irish coastal communities. Figure.9 Fishing Boats, Dingle Pier ( L. O Dea, CMRC) Harbour Charges Identified: Stakeholder Interviews Harbour charges were introduced on October 1 st, 2003 at the five Fishery Harbour Centres around the coast. One of these (Castletownbere) is in the Bantry Bay site. A range of new or increased charges will be levied on fishing vessels and other port users. These new charges replace the previous Order dating back to Charges relate to a variety of services, ranging from landing charges based on value of catch, freshwater charges, fuel delivery, car parking, lorry parking to use of the slipway. Concerns have been expressed that the charges will be the equivalent of the gross earnings of some vessels. Others are concerned that fishing vessels will no longer land catches in the Fishery Harbour Centres. If this is the case in the Bantry Bay study sites, the loss of revenue from vessels not landings catches in the port will have serious consequences for the sustainability of the region.

36 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 36 Poor Infrastructure Identified: Stakeholder Interviews Poor infrastructure is having a negative impact on the fishing industry. Bantry pier, for example, needs renovation, as both the fishing and aquaculture industries in the bay make use of the facility. In Cromane in the Dingle site, boats must land on the beach as pier facilities are not available.

37 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis The aquaculture industry Effect on the environment Identified: Enviroreview, Sociodata Open-ended questions, Stakeholder interviews One of the main concerns expressed by the general public in relation to aquaculture is the effect the industry has on the environment. This is of particular relevance to the Bantry bay site in Ireland. One of the main concerns is the visual impact of the mussel barrels within the bay. The area, as mentioned previously, is an extremely popular tourist region and the blue barrels are unsightly. Most mussel farmers have begun to change the barrels to a less conspicuous grey colour, however not all have been changed. As most mussel lines are situated in the inner bay and within sight of the town, there is a significant visual impact. Figure.10 Mussel Lines in Seal Harbour, Bantry Bay. ( P. Clayton, CMRC) Concern has been expressed over the quantity of mussel lines in the inner bay. There is concern that the inner bay has reached its carrying capacity and that production will decrease if

38 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 38 additional lines are placed in the inner bay. This may lead to increased susceptibility to disease, and possibly to an increased frequency of red tides. Associated with the volume of mussels produced, there is concern about the effect of build-up of sediment beneath the mussel lines and its effect on the biodiversity of the seabed. In relation to the salmon cages, there is concern regarding the potential effect these have on the environment. The potential effects include a build up of sediments beneath the cages; the use of chemicals in antibiotics and antifoulants and their effect on the environment; increased numbers of sea-lice which affects wild stock of salmonids; the risk of escapees- this would have serious consequences for the already decreasing wild salmon population. There have been high levels of litter associated with the industry reported in the vicinity of aquaculture installations, not only in the study sites, but throughout Ireland. To assist aquaculture companies, BIM have produced ECOPACT (Environmental Code of Practice for Irish Aquaculture Companies and Traders). This document provides aquaculture companies with objectives, background information and recommended actions for 13 environmental aspects of the industry. This includes concerns expressed by tourists of the visual impact of the mussel barrels and salmon cages; environmental monitoring; stock health management. ECOPACT contains information relating to protected species and habitats in Ireland. The document should be extremely beneficial to the aquaculture industry in combating the concerns of the stakeholders. Training Identified: Socioreview, Sociodata, Socioanalysis, Stakeholder Interviews All of the stakeholders interviewed from the aquaculture industry mentioned the need for training for staff. They feel training is essential in health and safety and in quality. Basic training in the biology of the species being farmed and in the harvesting methods would be beneficial to the industry. Quality training would assist in obtaining a better quality product, which would benefit the industry. Health and safety training is vital for successful running of the aquaculture industries. Training is provided by BIM in the Fisheries Training Centre in Castletownbere in the Bantry study site. If this were made compulsory for all staff it would benefit the industry greatly.

39 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 39 Insurance Identified: Stakeholder Interviews Insurance costs in Ireland have increased considerably in recent years and many companies are finding the increasing costs difficult to pay. There is some concern that if the rise in prices continues, companies will not be able to continue paying insurance and may be forced to close. Conflict between recreational and commercial use of the bay Identified: Enviroreview, Sociodata, Stakeholder Interviews A number of concerns have been expressed over the amount of the bay in Bantry taken over by the mussel lines. This has reduced the availability of the bay to other users and some concerns have been expressed with regard to safe use of the bay. The mussel lines are close together, and many are close to the shore, making it difficult to navigate around. This has reduced the availability of the bay to swimmers, canoeists and other pleasure craft users. Appeal system Identified: Sociodata, Stakeholder Interviews There is a system in place to allow members of the public to view any aquaculture installation proposals before they are granted. The public can then appeal these to the ALAB (Aquaculture Licence Appeals Board), by paying a fee. The Board will then review the application and determine whether the aquaculture licence should be granted. Many of those who have appealed against licence applications have found their appeal turned down. These people feel that the ALAB don t take their appeals into account and have lost faith in the system. The ALAB was established in 1998 and functions as an independent authority for the determination of appeals against decisions by the Minister in the DCMNR on aquaculture licences. In 2000, of the 44 decisions appealed to the Board, five outcomes confirmed the decision of the Minister; in 37 cases the Board issued the licence and in the remaining two cases the appeal was upheld ( Poor infrastructure Identified: Stakeholder Interviews Similar problems are encountered as already mentioned for the fishing industry.

40 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Importance of tourism Tourism is vital to the southwest region of Ireland, and to the study sites in particular. The main attractions are the scenic beauty of the area and the image of the clean environment. Figure.11 Dingle Peninsula ( L. O Dea, CMRC) The number of overseas tourist visiting the southwest between 1992 and 1997 increased from million to million, an increase of 39%. In the same period, the revenue generated by tourists in the region increased by 73% from million to million (Cork Kerry Tourism, 1999). This report highlighted the spectacular landscape and high environmental quality as one of the main strengths of the region (Cork Kerry Tourism, 1999). Kerry County Council surveyed tourists and found that traffic congestion, the weather and road conditions caused most dissatisfaction. The KITE (Kerry Initiative on Tourism and the Environment, ) found during a survey that the scenery was the highlight of many holidays in the region. The

41 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 41 KITE report stated the environment in Kerry has in intrinsic value which underpins its value as a tourism asset. Its enjoyment by future generations and its long-term survival must not be prejudiced by short-term consequences Traditional activities such as farming and fishing add to the attraction of the sites. Tourists enjoy being able to walk along the pier and watch the boats unloading their day s catch. Tourists in general, whether international or domestic, seem more concerned about the environmental effects of aquaculture. They find the barrels unsightly, and worry about the possibly pollution effects on the environment. The amount of litter along the foreshore is of concern, both land and marine litter gathers here and walks along the waterfront or beaches unpleasant. Tourists have expressed concern over the re-opening of the oil terminal at Whiddy Island in Bantry bay and the potential for oil spills (Sociodata open-ended questions). The tourism industry in both study sites provides sufficient employment to help maintain the population in the remote coastal areas. While this employment is generally seasonal, the large volume of visitors experienced by towns such as Bantry and Dingle are busy throughout the year. The seasonal work allows students to remain in the area during the summertime, and guarantees college students a job at home, rather than in the larger cities where competition for summer work is greater (Sociodata open-ended questions). The importance of the environment and the local people is recognised by the tourist industry as being important attractions to the region. As stated by Cork Kerry Tourism in their 1999 report: A concentrated strategy which prioritises sustainable tourism development will be required to ensure that the region does not undermine its most important strengths- its environment and its people

42 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Bantry Bay Coastal Zone Charter The Bantry Bay Coastal Zone Charter was published in This project was initiated to allow Cork County Council address the challenge of successful management of the coastal zone around Bantry Bay and was initially supported as an EU LIFE project. The Charter is recognised as part of the EU Demonstration Programme on Integrated Management in Coastal Zones. The Charter is a Stakeholder s Charter with the purpose of developing an agreed approach to the management and development of the Bantry Bay area. To do this, it was necessary to bring together the different views and aspirations that existed for the development of the area, as well as the agencies involved in the regulation and development of the region. Once stakeholder groups had been identified, discussions were held to discuss their concerns, which were combined into lists of issues. In total 142 issues were raised by the stakeholders and were categorised into the following themes: General; Amenity; Business/Commercial; Educational; Islands; Local participation; Marine; Mussels; Oil pollution; Planning and Development; Public Facilities and Infrastructure; Regulation and Information; Tourism; Waste; Water Pollution; and other issues/ future issues. As can be seen, some of the issues raised during the Charter were also raised during the Aqcess project. Some of the main concerns in the Charter are highlighted below (Table.4). Working Groups were established, involving stakeholder representatives with an interest in the issue under discussion met regularly to discuss the concerns and work towards consensus on management proposals. Objectives were identified, together with challenges to achieving the objective, and an approach to achieving the objective was agreed. The Charter was very well received in the community, and there was large participation by the community in the process. The Charter won National Awards, such as the National Planning Achievement Award, having been recognised as breaking new ground in the practical application of public participation techniques and consensus building. On completion of the Charter an office was established in Bantry town and staff continued to work through the issues highlighted in the Charter. The office was open to the public, providing a reference library relating to the issues. A newsletter was published frequently, updating stakeholders on action taken on the issues. However the Charter office closed in February 2003, due to a lack of funding.

43 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 43 Table.4 Issues highlighted by Stakeholders in the Bantry Bay Coastal Zone Charter. Marine Conflict between fishing and recreational boats near quays General lack of facilities and no boat repair yard Salmon farms seen as affecting herring spawning grounds Single regulating Body for the Bay Improvements to inner harbour at Bantry (marina, pier etc) Port at Castletownbere needs to be refurbished Concern at impacts of marine SAC s on activities in the Bay Towing gear should not be used in the Bay and appropriate net mesh sizes to be used Navigation problems in the Bay Mussels Proper regulation and control of new mussel lines Concern at visual intrusiveness of mussel lines/ barrels Mussel lines obstruct harbours and navigation channels Red Tide problems Mussel lines affecting shellfish grounds Ballasting to be controlled Delays in issuing licences Water quality standard in the Bay not to be downgraded New areas should be opened up to meet demand Seeding & development of mussels should be kept in different areas Some evidence that mussel lines deter yachtsmen from visiting certain ports Fears that aquaculture is adversely affecting tourism Mussel debris a major problem (socks, discarded lines, barrels) Tourism Potential of Bantry Bay as a commercial and leisure asset to be developed Insurance problems for water sports sector Fishing and pleasure boats vying for space at piers. Other issues Riverine pollution affecting freshwater and marine environments Concern at use of chemicals by fish farms Public sewerage schemes a priority in certain areas Facilities at piers and harbours to be improved Too many regulatory bodies. Jurisdictions overlap and unclear Public access to environmental data needed Concern at impact of existing and planned mariculture factories on local scenic areas Refuse collection/ disposal for marine users to be re-examined Ecological awareness to be improved

44 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Summary of main factors The main factors of concern/conflict are: Fishing Industry: Decline in fish stocks. This factor is of major concern, the reduction in quotas and TAC s is already increasing the difficulty and hardship faced by many fishermen. The limit in access to fish combined with reduced prices, could result in many fishermen not being able to continue fishing. Inshore fleet. The inshore fleet is an ageing fleet, with many vessels more than 23 years old. There has been a decline in young people entering the industry. Many inshore fishermen have a second job to supplement their fishing income, which is insufficient to support a family. Aquaculture Industry: Environmental Concerns: The effect of the aquaculture industry on the environment is of concern to many stakeholders in the study sites. There are concerns in both industries with regard to training and insurance. The high costs of insurance could result in many having to exist the industries. In some cases costs of insuring fishing vessels have doubled. Compulsory training for all working in the fishing and aquaculture industries in health and safety and quality would benefit the industries. Quality training would provide a better product which will obtain higher prices. Health and safety training will provide a safer working environment, which will benefit the industry.

45 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Interactions between fish farming, coastal fisheries and other activities Fish farming, fisheries and the other activities carried out in the study sites are closely linked and a number of interactions occur. Some of these interactions result in conflict between users of the study sites. This is particularly apparent in the Bantry Bay study site, where aquaculture utilises large sections of the inner bay. This restricts the use of the bay by other stakeholders. It causes a significant visual impact. Fishermen have expressed concern about aquaculture sites in the bay. There is anecdotal evidence that salmon cages and mussel lines have been placed in areas previously used by fishermen either for fishing or dredging scallops. Parts of the bay are restricted by the oil terminal, as the area in which the large oil tankers dock must be kept clear at all times. This does not have a significant impact on other users of the bay, as there is room to navigate around this area. Larger vessels use the outer bay to access the quarry at Leahill. This does not appear to impact significantly on other users of the bay. Interactions are not as apparent in the Dingle site as aquaculture in this area is based natural mussel and oyster beds. The lack of visual impact of this method of aquaculture has benefited the area, as it doesn t suffer the same complaints as Bantry bay. When it was attempted to introduce aquaculture to the area approximately 20 years ago, there was strong opposition from the local community and to date aquaculture hasn t developed to the extent it has in Bantry bay.

46 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis Decision making and perspectives of fish farmers, fishermen and other community members. The information for this section of the report was gathered from the open-ended questions at the end of the Sociodata questionnaire and also from the Synthesis interviews with the stakeholders Sociodata Open-ended Questions Open-ended questions from the Sociodata workpackage show that most local people questioned were in support of the fishing industry. They value it as a traditional way of life, as a source of employment, as a source of employment in the supporting industries. Many respect fishermen for carrying out such a tough and risky job. Due to the remote nature of some areas of the study sites, some felt fishing was a core industry and the only indigenous industry left, which meant it gained huge support from the local community. Some felt that the local community valued the fishing industry but did not support the industry. Some expressed concern that the industry is not attractive to younger people and the number of people employed will drop. This has already occurred in some regions with foreign nationals being employed. Most local people questioned felt the tourist industry supported and valued the fishing industry. Tourists enjoy walking along the piers and watching boats unloading. It supplies the local industries, such as restaurants, hotels and B&B s with fresh fish. Some fishermen are actively involved in tourism, providing angling trips, boat trips etc. Many felt the tourism and fishing industries enhanced each other. Tourists liked the opportunity to buy fresh fish straight from the boat. Most of the local people interviewed felt that the Government at all levels does not support the fishing industry. The local people are in support of the aquaculture industry, particularly as it provides employment in coastal areas. However some are concerned about the environmental effects of the industry. Many felt that aquaculture was taking over the bays, which left little space for recreational use of the bay. The tourist industry supports the aquaculture industry but concerns were expressed about the environmental impacts of the industry. The issue of mussel barrels in Bantry bay was one of the main concerns. However the tourists expressed strong support for the annual mussel fair, held in Bantry. Local people interviewed felt the Government at all levels supported the industry. They felt it provided an employment opportunity for the Government. It is more investment friendly than the fishing industry. The Governments at national and EU provide grants for the industry.

47 AQCESS (QLRT ) Workpackage 10: Synthesis 47 Fishermen felt that local people were in support of the fishing industry. They feel the local people value the traditional way of life, and value the employment and money it had brought to the community over the years. Fishermen feel that the tourist industry supports the industry. They feel the tourist industry and fishing industry work together to promote coastal areas. Fishermen in both study sites feel very strongly that the Government does not support the industry, they have little interest in inshore fishing, and that they don t fight for the Irish fishermen within the EU when quotas are being allocated. The fish farmers interviewed felt that the local community supported the industry, although the support given was not as strong as the support given to the fishing industry. They feel it is important in that it provides employment, but some were concerned about impacts on the environment. The fish farmers felt that tourists were supportive of the industry, but had some concerns regarding environmental aspects of the industry. They expressed an idea that both local people and tourists may not fully understand the industry. The freshwater trout farm in Lispole, Dingle, is open to the public, and combines an active working fish farm with a historical park and a wildlife park. Visitors can walk around the park viewing the historical features or catch their own trout ( BIM have provided information boards around bays where aquaculture takes place (see figure.12), but those interviewed feel that tours of mussel and salmon farms might better explain the situation. The majority felt that the Government supported the industry. Figure.12 Information Panel in Bantry Bay ( P. Clayton, CMRC)