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Newsletter and Christmas Greetings from the ICSA
It has been an Annus Horribilus this past year for Charter Boat Operators. Severe windy weather, lack of sun, a lot of rain, the depressed state of the economy generally, and a big reduction in overseas visitors, led to a very poor season for most Skippers. The sole consolation was falling fuel prices.
Due to committee members illness, time pressure due to bad weather as we tried to prepare our Boats for the Season, and other constraints, we were unable to hold our AGM in Spring this year. We will hold our 2016 AGM as previously, on the same WE as the Specimen Awards, when many Skippers will be in Dublin already.
After discussion, it has been decided that that the Renewal Sub for 2015 will be zero – We have some cash in the Bank, and few outgoings at present, so bearing in mind the current poor economic climate, and financial hardship being experienced by many Skippers, we do not urgently need to collect subscriptions. All existing Members will be sent their annual membership window stickers shortly. Any Skippers who have already paid their Sub will be refunded. In the event of an unforeseen problem arising that requires money, or a general improvement in the Charter Business, we will restart an annual Subscription.
A query was raised during the year on recreational Angling for Blue Fin Tuna – please click HERE to see the Parliamentary Question put to Mr Coveney and his reply on the matter, which outlines some of the complexities involved.
This year, several members of the ICSA were asked to join their local Regional Inshore Fisheries Forum (RIFF) as Marine Leisure Reps, and our Vice President, John McLoughlin, is a member of the National body, the National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF). This development gives Charter Skippers a voice in the utilization of our Inshore Fisheries. Although heavily outnumbered by commercial interests, it nevertheless gives us Charter Skippers a voice on the National Stage, some input into how the inshore Fishery resource is to be exploited on a fair and sustainable basis by all, and a say on how any new funding sources are allocated to the Sector. An announcement on new Funding will be made during the coming year.
Among other matters discussed at the RIFFs this year, of particular interest to charter skippers were a commercial quota for Bass (strongly resisted), restrictions on ‘Recreational’ potting, the conflict between vessels of different sizes in inshore waters, (which could lead to something like the “Golden Mile” concept, pushing the larger vessels out to deeper waters), and implications of Special Areas of Conservation, ( it looks like SAC’s will have no severe effects on Angling operations at present.)
The ICSA members involved in the NIFF and RIFF are :
National Inshore Fisheries Forum
John McLoughlin - Vice President of ICSA email [email protected]
North Western Regional Inshore Fisheries Forum
Mary Gavin Hughes – Treasurer of ICSA email [email protected]
Western Regional Fisheries Forum
Luke Aston email [email protected]
Southwestern Regional Inshore Fisheries Forum
Joe Lynch – Secretary of ICSA email [email protected]
If you have a view on how the Inshore Fishery is to develop, please contact your local RIFF representative at the above email address.
December 2015
Due to committee members illness, time pressure due to bad weather as we tried to prepare our Boats for the Season, and other constraints, we were unable to hold our AGM in Spring this year. We will hold our 2016 AGM as previously, on the same WE as the Specimen Awards, when many Skippers will be in Dublin already.
After discussion, it has been decided that that the Renewal Sub for 2015 will be zero – We have some cash in the Bank, and few outgoings at present, so bearing in mind the current poor economic climate, and financial hardship being experienced by many Skippers, we do not urgently need to collect subscriptions. All existing Members will be sent their annual membership window stickers shortly. Any Skippers who have already paid their Sub will be refunded. In the event of an unforeseen problem arising that requires money, or a general improvement in the Charter Business, we will restart an annual Subscription.
A query was raised during the year on recreational Angling for Blue Fin Tuna – please click HERE to see the Parliamentary Question put to Mr Coveney and his reply on the matter, which outlines some of the complexities involved.
This year, several members of the ICSA were asked to join their local Regional Inshore Fisheries Forum (RIFF) as Marine Leisure Reps, and our Vice President, John McLoughlin, is a member of the National body, the National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF). This development gives Charter Skippers a voice in the utilization of our Inshore Fisheries. Although heavily outnumbered by commercial interests, it nevertheless gives us Charter Skippers a voice on the National Stage, some input into how the inshore Fishery resource is to be exploited on a fair and sustainable basis by all, and a say on how any new funding sources are allocated to the Sector. An announcement on new Funding will be made during the coming year.
Among other matters discussed at the RIFFs this year, of particular interest to charter skippers were a commercial quota for Bass (strongly resisted), restrictions on ‘Recreational’ potting, the conflict between vessels of different sizes in inshore waters, (which could lead to something like the “Golden Mile” concept, pushing the larger vessels out to deeper waters), and implications of Special Areas of Conservation, ( it looks like SAC’s will have no severe effects on Angling operations at present.)
The ICSA members involved in the NIFF and RIFF are :
National Inshore Fisheries Forum
John McLoughlin - Vice President of ICSA email [email protected]
North Western Regional Inshore Fisheries Forum
Mary Gavin Hughes – Treasurer of ICSA email [email protected]
Western Regional Fisheries Forum
Luke Aston email [email protected]
Southwestern Regional Inshore Fisheries Forum
Joe Lynch – Secretary of ICSA email [email protected]
If you have a view on how the Inshore Fishery is to develop, please contact your local RIFF representative at the above email address.
December 2015
Chairman’s Annual Christmas Greeting
It’s been a tough year for Skippers, but 2016 will be a better year for us. The weather can only improve, and so too will our business.
Happy Christmas and a Happy and prosperous New Year to all members of the Irish Charter Skippers Association !
From Donal Kennedy, and all the Committee of the ICSA
December 2015
Happy Christmas and a Happy and prosperous New Year to all members of the Irish Charter Skippers Association !
From Donal Kennedy, and all the Committee of the ICSA
December 2015
Our chairman Donal Kennedy attended the 1st Annual Conference of Our Ocean Wealth in Dublin on Wednesday 18th June 2014!
http://www.ouroceanwealth.ie/
http://www.ouroceanwealth.ie/
Report on attendance at 1st Annual Conference on “Our Ocean Wealth” which took place on 18th June 2014 at the Printworks, Dublin Castle.
Donal Kennedy and
Minister Simon Coveney
To update you on the above, approximately April 2012 we, the ICSA, filled out a questionnaire from the group behind “Harnessing our Ocean Wealth”, where we made some very valid suggestions incorporating angling charter skippers and recreational sea angling. From this we were invited to the opening of “Harnessing our Ocean Wealth” at the Marine Institute in Galway last year. We were subsequently invited to the first Annual Conference and I attended on our behalf. Please refer to the conference programme attached to this report (see below) and I will briefly outline some of the key points.
The conference opened with an address by Taoiseach, Enda Kenny. This was followed by a number of speakers including Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney. This session closed at 10.45 and during the coffee break I took the opportunity of having a brief conversation with the Minister. I mentioned to him that during the opening session there was no mention of Charter Skippers or recreational sea angling’s input to harnessing our ocean wealth. His comment was that it was very hard to cover everything. I then suggested that we need to have a meeting to highlight our aims in achieving what the conference stands for. He agreed and hopefully in the near future this can happen.
The next session up to lunch covered various aspects of aquaculture development, bord bia, identifying the value of Irish seafood at home and abroad. Research and innovation was also covered in this session.After lunch the session covered offshore hydrocarbons, exploration and surveys.
The final session, under the heading, “Where land meets the Sea” incorporating Failte Ireland, Dept of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and anything to do with tourism. During this session, Sean Quinn CEO of Failte Ireland was a speaker. During his speech he said “I prefer to use the term tourism in coastal and marine areas deliberately rather than marine tourism. Marine tourism implies marine tourists which, where they exist, they do so in limited numbers.” He outlined the potential in cruises. He finished by saying “be assured that we will continue to play our part that tourism delivers growth and a substantial future for our coastal communities”. I did endeavour to ask a question during this session but was unable due to time constraints.
I was taken aback by his comments and must point out that a recent survey showed that charter skippers in conjunction with recreational sea angling generates revenue for coastal communities in the region of 150 million per year. I now have the impression that we are only a small cog in the tourism wheel and we need to up our profile in conjunction with recreational sea angling. We need to have our image identified more strongly by Failte Ireland with regard to marine tourism which, I feel is very important to our coastal communities.
In conclusion I hope to seek a meeting with Minister Coveney in the near future and also Mr Sean Quinn, Failte Ireland.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman of the Irish Charter Skippers Association
June 2014
The conference opened with an address by Taoiseach, Enda Kenny. This was followed by a number of speakers including Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney. This session closed at 10.45 and during the coffee break I took the opportunity of having a brief conversation with the Minister. I mentioned to him that during the opening session there was no mention of Charter Skippers or recreational sea angling’s input to harnessing our ocean wealth. His comment was that it was very hard to cover everything. I then suggested that we need to have a meeting to highlight our aims in achieving what the conference stands for. He agreed and hopefully in the near future this can happen.
The next session up to lunch covered various aspects of aquaculture development, bord bia, identifying the value of Irish seafood at home and abroad. Research and innovation was also covered in this session.After lunch the session covered offshore hydrocarbons, exploration and surveys.
The final session, under the heading, “Where land meets the Sea” incorporating Failte Ireland, Dept of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and anything to do with tourism. During this session, Sean Quinn CEO of Failte Ireland was a speaker. During his speech he said “I prefer to use the term tourism in coastal and marine areas deliberately rather than marine tourism. Marine tourism implies marine tourists which, where they exist, they do so in limited numbers.” He outlined the potential in cruises. He finished by saying “be assured that we will continue to play our part that tourism delivers growth and a substantial future for our coastal communities”. I did endeavour to ask a question during this session but was unable due to time constraints.
I was taken aback by his comments and must point out that a recent survey showed that charter skippers in conjunction with recreational sea angling generates revenue for coastal communities in the region of 150 million per year. I now have the impression that we are only a small cog in the tourism wheel and we need to up our profile in conjunction with recreational sea angling. We need to have our image identified more strongly by Failte Ireland with regard to marine tourism which, I feel is very important to our coastal communities.
In conclusion I hope to seek a meeting with Minister Coveney in the near future and also Mr Sean Quinn, Failte Ireland.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman of the Irish Charter Skippers Association
June 2014
Click on programme to enlarge
Introduction of rod licences????
Get in touch with us and discuss the matter
with ICSA chairman Donal Kennedy
THE IRISH TIMES
Comparison to last rod licence row in 1980s being played down
Government says nothing decided yet on updating of 1959 Fisheries Act
Barry Roche
Mon, Apr 7, 2014, 01:00
The Government has been keen to play down any comparisons between its proposed legislation and the disastrous attempt by
Charles Haughey’s 1987 Fianna Fáil government to introduce a rod licence which led to major divisions in communities across Ireland.
Thousands of anglers all over the country, but particularly in Connacht and Munster, rejected attempts by the then Department of the Marine under minister Brendan Daly to introduce a licence for trout anglers in what became known as “the rod war”.
The dispute, which raged from 1987 until 1989, led to angry stand-offs between anglers opposed to the licence and those willing to implement it. It led to Dáil debates in which the contributing TDs included Enda Kenny and Michael D Higgins.
Resolution
Eventually a resolution was achieved in 1989 by the then minister for the marine, the late John Wilson, when the department withdrew the proposal and replaced it with a compromise aimed at furthering the conservation of fish stocks.
Contacted by The Irish Times about the latest concerns of anglers, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources stressed that nothing has been decided yet in terms of the content of the planned legislation aimed at updating the 1959
Fisheries Act.
Asked a series of specific questions about when the department planned to introduce a compulsory angling charge, an angling register,
an angler ID and angler penalty points, the department said these were simply discussion themes.
“There is no predetermined content for any aspect of the proposed legislation and no proposal to introduce compulsory charges, hence there has been no question of amounts etc,” the department pointed out.
Future funding
“That said, as part of a discussion around the future funding of the sector, the question has been raised as to whether there is merit in creating a ring-fenced funding mechanism to be ploughed back into inland fisheries development,” it added.
In its statement, the department pointed out that this is already happening in the case of salmon whereby fishermen contribute to a fund managed on their behalf by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and reinvested in the salmon sector.
“Whether this model could be replicated across other component parts of the inland fisheries sector has been discussed and there is understandably differing opinions,” the statement said.
Regarding the issue of “penalty points” for anglers, the department said that under existing legislation, those who breach fisheries legislation can end up being prosecuted, potentially leading to imprisonment.
“The issue that has been raised in the consultation is whether there is a better way and if lesser breaches could be taken outside the court system, possibly along the lines of a fixed penalty system,” it said.
According to the department, these issues are not predetermined but discussion themes that are part of the ongoing consultation process which has seen a series of public information and consultation meetings with angling groups around the country.
“The Minister of State, Fergus O’Dowd, has made repeatedly clear that he wishes to see the fullest possible level of consensus before any proposals are finalised and that no proposals will be finalised until the current round of inter-federation discussions are complete.
“Minister O’Dowd has also made it clear that proposals must not be a source of division within the sector,” said the department, adding that it was working closely with IFI to complete a comprehensive review of the 1959 Inland Fisheries Act.
Underpinned
“The aim is to ensure that the sector is underpinned by a robust and modern legislative code, fit for the 21st century. This is an extensive project and an opportunity to modernise a range of measures and to address matters which were not a consideration in 1959,” it said.
Link to the article:
http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/other-sports/comparison-to-last-rod-licence-row-in-1980s-being-played-down-1.1752435
Comparison to last rod licence row in 1980s being played down
Government says nothing decided yet on updating of 1959 Fisheries Act
Barry Roche
Mon, Apr 7, 2014, 01:00
The Government has been keen to play down any comparisons between its proposed legislation and the disastrous attempt by
Charles Haughey’s 1987 Fianna Fáil government to introduce a rod licence which led to major divisions in communities across Ireland.
Thousands of anglers all over the country, but particularly in Connacht and Munster, rejected attempts by the then Department of the Marine under minister Brendan Daly to introduce a licence for trout anglers in what became known as “the rod war”.
The dispute, which raged from 1987 until 1989, led to angry stand-offs between anglers opposed to the licence and those willing to implement it. It led to Dáil debates in which the contributing TDs included Enda Kenny and Michael D Higgins.
Resolution
Eventually a resolution was achieved in 1989 by the then minister for the marine, the late John Wilson, when the department withdrew the proposal and replaced it with a compromise aimed at furthering the conservation of fish stocks.
Contacted by The Irish Times about the latest concerns of anglers, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources stressed that nothing has been decided yet in terms of the content of the planned legislation aimed at updating the 1959
Fisheries Act.
Asked a series of specific questions about when the department planned to introduce a compulsory angling charge, an angling register,
an angler ID and angler penalty points, the department said these were simply discussion themes.
“There is no predetermined content for any aspect of the proposed legislation and no proposal to introduce compulsory charges, hence there has been no question of amounts etc,” the department pointed out.
Future funding
“That said, as part of a discussion around the future funding of the sector, the question has been raised as to whether there is merit in creating a ring-fenced funding mechanism to be ploughed back into inland fisheries development,” it added.
In its statement, the department pointed out that this is already happening in the case of salmon whereby fishermen contribute to a fund managed on their behalf by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and reinvested in the salmon sector.
“Whether this model could be replicated across other component parts of the inland fisheries sector has been discussed and there is understandably differing opinions,” the statement said.
Regarding the issue of “penalty points” for anglers, the department said that under existing legislation, those who breach fisheries legislation can end up being prosecuted, potentially leading to imprisonment.
“The issue that has been raised in the consultation is whether there is a better way and if lesser breaches could be taken outside the court system, possibly along the lines of a fixed penalty system,” it said.
According to the department, these issues are not predetermined but discussion themes that are part of the ongoing consultation process which has seen a series of public information and consultation meetings with angling groups around the country.
“The Minister of State, Fergus O’Dowd, has made repeatedly clear that he wishes to see the fullest possible level of consensus before any proposals are finalised and that no proposals will be finalised until the current round of inter-federation discussions are complete.
“Minister O’Dowd has also made it clear that proposals must not be a source of division within the sector,” said the department, adding that it was working closely with IFI to complete a comprehensive review of the 1959 Inland Fisheries Act.
Underpinned
“The aim is to ensure that the sector is underpinned by a robust and modern legislative code, fit for the 21st century. This is an extensive project and an opportunity to modernise a range of measures and to address matters which were not a consideration in 1959,” it said.
Link to the article:
http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/other-sports/comparison-to-last-rod-licence-row-in-1980s-being-played-down-1.1752435
From Joe Lynch, Secretary of the ICSA
Call for nominations for election to the Board of the ICSA for 2014 and
Notice Of 2014 AGM of the Irish Charter Skippers Association
The results of this Ballot will be Notified at our AGM on Wednesday 23st of April 2014 at 10:45 (exact hotel venue to be decided (IFI not available)) Dublin.
As per our constitution, the agenda for the AGM will be circulated 14 days in advance of the Meeting.
If there is a matter you want put on the Agenda, submit it to The Secretary : Joe Lynch, 89 East Ave. Parkgate Frankfield Cork, (preferably by email to : [email protected] ) before the 9th of April 2014
read more in the member area
Call for nominations for election to the Board of the ICSA for 2014 and
Notice Of 2014 AGM of the Irish Charter Skippers Association
The results of this Ballot will be Notified at our AGM on Wednesday 23st of April 2014 at 10:45 (exact hotel venue to be decided (IFI not available)) Dublin.
As per our constitution, the agenda for the AGM will be circulated 14 days in advance of the Meeting.
If there is a matter you want put on the Agenda, submit it to The Secretary : Joe Lynch, 89 East Ave. Parkgate Frankfield Cork, (preferably by email to : [email protected] ) before the 9th of April 2014
read more in the member area
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Irish Charter Skippers Association
held on 21st of March 2013 at Inland Fisheries Ireland, Swords, Dublin
read more in the member area
held on 21st of March 2013 at Inland Fisheries Ireland, Swords, Dublin
read more in the member area
Report on launch of “Harnessing our Ocean Wealth”
The Marine Institute, Oranmore, Co. Galway
Tuesday 31st July 2012
I received an invitation from the Marine Institute to attend the above launch as Chairman of the Irish Charter Skippers Association. I felt that attending this launch would be a great opportunity to possibly meet with Minister Coveney, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and possibly the potential to meet with An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny.
The launch was opened by An Taoiseach who outlined the Government’s plan to harness our ocean wealth. In one of his opening statements he said “I want to see us reconnect to the sea in a way that harnesses the ideas, innovation and knowledge of all our people, at home and abroad. I want to see us setting out to secure for ourselves and our children the social, cultural and economic benefits that our marine assets can deliver”. The next speaker was Minister Simon Coveney who outlined an integrated marine plan for Ireland and also a road map, taking into account new ways, new approaches and new thinking. Each guest was present with a booklet containing comprehensive information with regard to harnessing our ocean wealth. On perusal of the booklet, recreational sea angling is not highlighted. I believe that it comes under the heading “Marine and Coastal Tourism and Leisure. I felt at this stage that there was a need for me to avail of any opportunity to meet with Minister Coveney and outline our concerns and offer any information with regard to recreational sea angling.
Following Minister Coveney’s speech he indicated that should anyone have any questions while he was circulating with the guests he would be only too glad to assist.
I took this as an opportunity to approach the Minister and I first identified myself as Chairman of the Irish Charter Skippers Association and set out our aims. I stated that the potential for recreational sea angling in Ireland is underestimated. I said that Recreational Sea Anglers generate much needed revenue for the coastal communities and that we, as charter skippers, provide a valuable service to these anglers in safe licensed boats. I told him that charter skippers have invested a lot of money and are a dedicated body of people who provide a valuable service to angling/tourism. I also said that we are stakeholders in this issue and would like to be part of discussions and offer any help we can. I said the integrated plan outlined in the booklet barely touches on harnessing the wealth of recreational sea angling. I said that I believed there is an important need for the Irish Charter Skippers Association to have a meeting with the Minister as soon as possible to outline our concerns and our plans for harnessing our ocean wealth.
Minister Coveney said that recreational sea angling is provided for in the integrated plan outlined in the booklet and he would be only too delighted to meet with representatives of the Irish Chartered Skippers Association and find out more about recreational sea angling. To this effect he introduced me to his political adviser, Caitriona Fitzpatrick, and asked me to make contact with her with a view to arranging a meeting. During my discussion with the Minister, Miss Fitzpatrick was present and I took the opportunity to confirm that I will be in touch with her in the near future.
I found the Minister to be very open and interested in what I had to say and having raised a number of points with him at no time during our conversation did I feel he was just going through the motions. I felt he was very passionate about the integrated plan for ocean wealth and would welcome any further assistance to make it happen, and I believe this will be a good opportunity for us to make a difference. We have now identified ourselves to the Minister and I intend to follow this up.
Before the launch broke up I seized the opportunity to meet An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny. I identified myself and our association to him and he asked a number of questions about the association and charter skippers. I pointed out our aims as I had done with Minister Coveney and my main point was to identify the potential that recreational sea anglers and charters skippers can do in generating revenue for coastal communities with the use or safe, professional skippers and licensed boats. I said that I intend to take up Minister Coveney’s offer of a meeting in the near future. I found the Taoiseach very attentive and interested in what I had to say.
I am glad I took the opportunity to go to this launch as I believe I achieved the desired effect of outlining our plans, our concerns and how best we can assist. This is a further major step for the Association.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman
Invitation to the Launch of Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth An Integrated Marine Plan for Ireland - 31st July 2012
The launch was opened by An Taoiseach who outlined the Government’s plan to harness our ocean wealth. In one of his opening statements he said “I want to see us reconnect to the sea in a way that harnesses the ideas, innovation and knowledge of all our people, at home and abroad. I want to see us setting out to secure for ourselves and our children the social, cultural and economic benefits that our marine assets can deliver”. The next speaker was Minister Simon Coveney who outlined an integrated marine plan for Ireland and also a road map, taking into account new ways, new approaches and new thinking. Each guest was present with a booklet containing comprehensive information with regard to harnessing our ocean wealth. On perusal of the booklet, recreational sea angling is not highlighted. I believe that it comes under the heading “Marine and Coastal Tourism and Leisure. I felt at this stage that there was a need for me to avail of any opportunity to meet with Minister Coveney and outline our concerns and offer any information with regard to recreational sea angling.
Following Minister Coveney’s speech he indicated that should anyone have any questions while he was circulating with the guests he would be only too glad to assist.
I took this as an opportunity to approach the Minister and I first identified myself as Chairman of the Irish Charter Skippers Association and set out our aims. I stated that the potential for recreational sea angling in Ireland is underestimated. I said that Recreational Sea Anglers generate much needed revenue for the coastal communities and that we, as charter skippers, provide a valuable service to these anglers in safe licensed boats. I told him that charter skippers have invested a lot of money and are a dedicated body of people who provide a valuable service to angling/tourism. I also said that we are stakeholders in this issue and would like to be part of discussions and offer any help we can. I said the integrated plan outlined in the booklet barely touches on harnessing the wealth of recreational sea angling. I said that I believed there is an important need for the Irish Charter Skippers Association to have a meeting with the Minister as soon as possible to outline our concerns and our plans for harnessing our ocean wealth.
Minister Coveney said that recreational sea angling is provided for in the integrated plan outlined in the booklet and he would be only too delighted to meet with representatives of the Irish Chartered Skippers Association and find out more about recreational sea angling. To this effect he introduced me to his political adviser, Caitriona Fitzpatrick, and asked me to make contact with her with a view to arranging a meeting. During my discussion with the Minister, Miss Fitzpatrick was present and I took the opportunity to confirm that I will be in touch with her in the near future.
I found the Minister to be very open and interested in what I had to say and having raised a number of points with him at no time during our conversation did I feel he was just going through the motions. I felt he was very passionate about the integrated plan for ocean wealth and would welcome any further assistance to make it happen, and I believe this will be a good opportunity for us to make a difference. We have now identified ourselves to the Minister and I intend to follow this up.
Before the launch broke up I seized the opportunity to meet An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny. I identified myself and our association to him and he asked a number of questions about the association and charter skippers. I pointed out our aims as I had done with Minister Coveney and my main point was to identify the potential that recreational sea anglers and charters skippers can do in generating revenue for coastal communities with the use or safe, professional skippers and licensed boats. I said that I intend to take up Minister Coveney’s offer of a meeting in the near future. I found the Taoiseach very attentive and interested in what I had to say.
I am glad I took the opportunity to go to this launch as I believe I achieved the desired effect of outlining our plans, our concerns and how best we can assist. This is a further major step for the Association.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman
Invitation to the Launch of Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth An Integrated Marine Plan for Ireland - 31st July 2012
Report on meeting with Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar on Wednesday June 20th 2012
Attendance:
(on photo from left to right)
Ashley Hayden, Angling writer and lobbyist
Johnny Woodlock, Sea Fishery Advisory Group
Minister Varadker
Donal Kennedy, Chairman ICSA
John Quinlan, Irish Bass
Introduction:
Johnny Woodlock introduced the delegation and highlighted the agenda, Recreational Sea Angling. He highlighted the fact that an RSA is an angler who fishes for recreation and sport, many practice voluntary catch and release. He also highlighted that a relatively small investment in dedicated marketing could prove very rewarding for our national economy. Our bass stocks are the only fish species managed for RSA in Europe, both Irish Bass and the ICSA are attempting to promote the highest professional standards for their members. He handed over to Ashley Hayden who identified possible items for consideration; a professional sea angling development officer be appointed asap within IFI. This appointment should go out for tender and not just be filled from within the public service. Sea angling interests should be represented at the table in Brussels. Minister Varadkar pointed out that the department is constrained by finance and did not see this to be viable at present. Next to speak was John Quinlan who highlighted the importance of bass stock management and the fact that many anglers worldwide come to Ireland and generate tourism revenue. Next to speak was myself and I chose to speak on a number of issues that were raised by our delegates, bearing in mind the time scale that I might be allowed. I identified a number of important points i.e. RSA specific marketing schemes, reserved areas (the golden mile) bag limits for endangered species, artificial reefs reserved for RSA and diving and the elimination of unlicensed charter boats, MSO issues.
I introduced myself to the Minister and gave a brief summary of the formation of the ICSA and our aims and said that we are a professional body of charter skippers who provide a good safe service to RSA all around the country and generate much needed revenue for the coastal communities through sea angling charters. I said that their seemed to be very little appreciation of what RSA is all about and we need to emphasise that RSA is a unique means to improve tourism. The follow on from that is that the revenue it generates is huge, some years ago it was quoted that angling/tourism generates €110 million and by now it is much more. Tackle shops, hotels, guest houses and other businesses benefit from RSA. With regard to reserved areas (the golden mile) there is a need to keep trawlers out of nursery areas or bays. Our fleet would take a year to catch what a trawler would catch in one day. Under the heading “Elimination of illegal unlicensed charter boats” I stated to the Minister that it becomes a safety issue and I am sure that the Minister would agree with me should his department be promoting RSA/tourism he would want to have safety at the highest level. I asked the Minister to bear in mind that any Organisation, Club, Hotel who promotes RSA and the use of charter boats are liable should there be an incident or an accident if people use unlicensed boats. I took the opportunity to expand on this statement by saying that our members are dedicated professional sea angling charter skippers who have spent a lot of time and money in keeping their boats up to the highest safety standards as required by the MSO to get a license to carry passengers for reward, but are constantly frustrated by the knowledge that there are unlicensed boats operating in their area without fear of being identified. We need the MSO to become more proactive in identifying illegal charter boats. They are authorised officers along with an Garda Siochana. I pointed out to the Minister that we do not intend to be the policemen with regard to this issue nor do we wish to put anybody out of business. We want to increase the safe use of charter boats by tourists. Charter skippers operate from close coastal communities and we need to be able to operate from these coastal harbours in harmony with other boat users. Our boats are not fireproof and 24/7 protection would be out of the question. |I pointed out to the Minister that there is a strong seafaring bond between fishermen and this needs to be maintained should an incident occur and help is required from other boatmen. The Minister understood this point fully. With regard to the licensing of boats the MSO have on their database a list of licensed boats but this is not up to date. I emphasised the point that this list of licensed boats that the MSO have and any other body who also identify and promote sea angling charter/tourism need to make sure that the list is correct and up to date. A tourist seeing a boat on an official list will assume the boat is licensed. This leads to the point I made earlier that any body promoting sea angling charter could be liable in the event of an accident.
I pointed out to the Minister that I am fully aware of the constraints within the MSO with regard to manpower but I feel if the MSO were more proactive in checking for unlicensed boats it would promote a high safety standard. I asked the Minister would it be in his remit at the initial stage, to issue a communiqué, similar to the water safety authority, i.e. they emphasise the wearing of lifejackets while at sea. The department should send out a notice advising RSA, clubs, hotels and any organisation who wish to hire a charter boat for a day’s fishing or other pursuits that these people should check if the boat is licensed to carry passengers for reward. It is in the interest of the department of tourism to ensure that charter boats catering for tourists have the highest safety standards. The Minister took note of this and said that he would look into it with a view to cost and timescale.
I briefly mentioned that there is another issue being loaded on our members RATES AND CHARGES ORDER 2012 which at the moment are to be imposed in the fishery harbour centres. We in the ICSA are against these charges and it could put many angling charter boats out of business. I also said that I was aware that this was not the Minister’s brief, however, he should be aware of it and that I intend to take up the matter with Minister Coveney in the near future.
I said to the Minister that we are stakeholders with regard to RSA and should be involved in any discussions which may affect our future. I said we are willing to meet to discuss any issues with regard to RSA and are willing to help in any way.
I thanked him for allowing me the time to point out some very important issues that needed to be identified.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman ICSA
(on photo from left to right)
Ashley Hayden, Angling writer and lobbyist
Johnny Woodlock, Sea Fishery Advisory Group
Minister Varadker
Donal Kennedy, Chairman ICSA
John Quinlan, Irish Bass
Introduction:
Johnny Woodlock introduced the delegation and highlighted the agenda, Recreational Sea Angling. He highlighted the fact that an RSA is an angler who fishes for recreation and sport, many practice voluntary catch and release. He also highlighted that a relatively small investment in dedicated marketing could prove very rewarding for our national economy. Our bass stocks are the only fish species managed for RSA in Europe, both Irish Bass and the ICSA are attempting to promote the highest professional standards for their members. He handed over to Ashley Hayden who identified possible items for consideration; a professional sea angling development officer be appointed asap within IFI. This appointment should go out for tender and not just be filled from within the public service. Sea angling interests should be represented at the table in Brussels. Minister Varadkar pointed out that the department is constrained by finance and did not see this to be viable at present. Next to speak was John Quinlan who highlighted the importance of bass stock management and the fact that many anglers worldwide come to Ireland and generate tourism revenue. Next to speak was myself and I chose to speak on a number of issues that were raised by our delegates, bearing in mind the time scale that I might be allowed. I identified a number of important points i.e. RSA specific marketing schemes, reserved areas (the golden mile) bag limits for endangered species, artificial reefs reserved for RSA and diving and the elimination of unlicensed charter boats, MSO issues.
I introduced myself to the Minister and gave a brief summary of the formation of the ICSA and our aims and said that we are a professional body of charter skippers who provide a good safe service to RSA all around the country and generate much needed revenue for the coastal communities through sea angling charters. I said that their seemed to be very little appreciation of what RSA is all about and we need to emphasise that RSA is a unique means to improve tourism. The follow on from that is that the revenue it generates is huge, some years ago it was quoted that angling/tourism generates €110 million and by now it is much more. Tackle shops, hotels, guest houses and other businesses benefit from RSA. With regard to reserved areas (the golden mile) there is a need to keep trawlers out of nursery areas or bays. Our fleet would take a year to catch what a trawler would catch in one day. Under the heading “Elimination of illegal unlicensed charter boats” I stated to the Minister that it becomes a safety issue and I am sure that the Minister would agree with me should his department be promoting RSA/tourism he would want to have safety at the highest level. I asked the Minister to bear in mind that any Organisation, Club, Hotel who promotes RSA and the use of charter boats are liable should there be an incident or an accident if people use unlicensed boats. I took the opportunity to expand on this statement by saying that our members are dedicated professional sea angling charter skippers who have spent a lot of time and money in keeping their boats up to the highest safety standards as required by the MSO to get a license to carry passengers for reward, but are constantly frustrated by the knowledge that there are unlicensed boats operating in their area without fear of being identified. We need the MSO to become more proactive in identifying illegal charter boats. They are authorised officers along with an Garda Siochana. I pointed out to the Minister that we do not intend to be the policemen with regard to this issue nor do we wish to put anybody out of business. We want to increase the safe use of charter boats by tourists. Charter skippers operate from close coastal communities and we need to be able to operate from these coastal harbours in harmony with other boat users. Our boats are not fireproof and 24/7 protection would be out of the question. |I pointed out to the Minister that there is a strong seafaring bond between fishermen and this needs to be maintained should an incident occur and help is required from other boatmen. The Minister understood this point fully. With regard to the licensing of boats the MSO have on their database a list of licensed boats but this is not up to date. I emphasised the point that this list of licensed boats that the MSO have and any other body who also identify and promote sea angling charter/tourism need to make sure that the list is correct and up to date. A tourist seeing a boat on an official list will assume the boat is licensed. This leads to the point I made earlier that any body promoting sea angling charter could be liable in the event of an accident.
I pointed out to the Minister that I am fully aware of the constraints within the MSO with regard to manpower but I feel if the MSO were more proactive in checking for unlicensed boats it would promote a high safety standard. I asked the Minister would it be in his remit at the initial stage, to issue a communiqué, similar to the water safety authority, i.e. they emphasise the wearing of lifejackets while at sea. The department should send out a notice advising RSA, clubs, hotels and any organisation who wish to hire a charter boat for a day’s fishing or other pursuits that these people should check if the boat is licensed to carry passengers for reward. It is in the interest of the department of tourism to ensure that charter boats catering for tourists have the highest safety standards. The Minister took note of this and said that he would look into it with a view to cost and timescale.
I briefly mentioned that there is another issue being loaded on our members RATES AND CHARGES ORDER 2012 which at the moment are to be imposed in the fishery harbour centres. We in the ICSA are against these charges and it could put many angling charter boats out of business. I also said that I was aware that this was not the Minister’s brief, however, he should be aware of it and that I intend to take up the matter with Minister Coveney in the near future.
I said to the Minister that we are stakeholders with regard to RSA and should be involved in any discussions which may affect our future. I said we are willing to meet to discuss any issues with regard to RSA and are willing to help in any way.
I thanked him for allowing me the time to point out some very important issues that needed to be identified.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman ICSA
Submission to Minister Coveney on
proposed Fishery Harbour Charges
The Irish Charter Skippers Association deplores the increase in Fishery Harbour landing and berthing rates recently proposed by Minister Coveney. Charter boat operators operate in a low margin, high cost and highly regulated environment. It is safe to say that few are in the business for the money, particularly following recent large increases in fuel prices.
Scale of Charges
A typical boat would be
€ 1 per grt/week = € 18 X 52 = € 936
Mandatory water fee 30/month = € 360
Fee for up to 12 passengers = € 1,150
Mandatory waste disposal = 40/month = € 480
Typical 10.7m Berth annual fee @ 250/meter = € 2,675
TOTAL PER ANNUM = € 5,601
€ 5,601 per year is approx one sixth of a typical Boats turnover! There is no way any skipper could meet a charge of that size, he’d have to go out of business immediately.
The facts are simple – only a handful of boats get over 100 days bookings a year, charging an average of € 400 - € 450 per day, giving a theoretical maximum turnover of about
€ 45,000. Average costs for 100 days worked at Sea (diesel fuel , oil, servicing, insurance etc) would come to € 30,000 absolute minimum, leaving a handful of skippers with a possible max of € 15,000 for 130 or so days work(including maintenance days). The majority of skippers would have as little as half of this. Income tax and company returns over the last few years can be produced to prove this.
The vast majority of skippers would clear a lot less than this. From this small income, the minister wants to take another € 5,600 in expenses? It is clearly impossible! Imposition of charges on this scale will simply put many skippers out of business overnight.
Nevertheless, charter boat operators contribute very significantly to local tourist and economic activity, in a manner which is out of proportion to their modest turnover. For instance when a party comes for a typical 3 day angling trip, they will stay for 5 nights in local guesthouses, eating and drinking locally, buying fishing tackle and using local shops. Everyone shares the boats business.
Payment in Advance
The fact that these charges will have to be paid in advance of the season, when skippers will not have had any earning opportunities yet, adds significantly to a skippers difficulty. Looking for a business loan to cover this expense is extremely difficult in the present climate, and adds to the cost involved.
Adding insult to injury, the water and refuse charges are mandatory, whether used or needed. Another € 810 down the drain!
Safety Issues
In some circumstances there may be scope to move to a non fishery harbour nearby, and continue in business, but this will result in a large loss to the Fishery Harbours economy, and most importantly, will force skippers to operate from more remote and less safe harbours, with a resulting lowering in passenger safety standards, a concurrent reduction in affected operators business, and inevitably, their business viability.
Conclusion
This imposition on Charter Skipper and Passenger Boat Skippers comes at a time when every effort should be being put into increasing tourism revenue, especially overseas revenue, and NOT into weakening and diminishing tourism infrastructure.
The Irish Charter Skippers Association calls on Minister Coveney to radically rethink these unjustified increases in charges, and instead consider what could be done to bolster the Recreational Sea Angling, Eco-tourism and tourist passenger businesses.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman
The Irish Charter Skippers Association
20th April 2012
Scale of Charges
A typical boat would be
€ 1 per grt/week = € 18 X 52 = € 936
Mandatory water fee 30/month = € 360
Fee for up to 12 passengers = € 1,150
Mandatory waste disposal = 40/month = € 480
Typical 10.7m Berth annual fee @ 250/meter = € 2,675
TOTAL PER ANNUM = € 5,601
€ 5,601 per year is approx one sixth of a typical Boats turnover! There is no way any skipper could meet a charge of that size, he’d have to go out of business immediately.
The facts are simple – only a handful of boats get over 100 days bookings a year, charging an average of € 400 - € 450 per day, giving a theoretical maximum turnover of about
€ 45,000. Average costs for 100 days worked at Sea (diesel fuel , oil, servicing, insurance etc) would come to € 30,000 absolute minimum, leaving a handful of skippers with a possible max of € 15,000 for 130 or so days work(including maintenance days). The majority of skippers would have as little as half of this. Income tax and company returns over the last few years can be produced to prove this.
The vast majority of skippers would clear a lot less than this. From this small income, the minister wants to take another € 5,600 in expenses? It is clearly impossible! Imposition of charges on this scale will simply put many skippers out of business overnight.
Nevertheless, charter boat operators contribute very significantly to local tourist and economic activity, in a manner which is out of proportion to their modest turnover. For instance when a party comes for a typical 3 day angling trip, they will stay for 5 nights in local guesthouses, eating and drinking locally, buying fishing tackle and using local shops. Everyone shares the boats business.
Payment in Advance
The fact that these charges will have to be paid in advance of the season, when skippers will not have had any earning opportunities yet, adds significantly to a skippers difficulty. Looking for a business loan to cover this expense is extremely difficult in the present climate, and adds to the cost involved.
Adding insult to injury, the water and refuse charges are mandatory, whether used or needed. Another € 810 down the drain!
Safety Issues
In some circumstances there may be scope to move to a non fishery harbour nearby, and continue in business, but this will result in a large loss to the Fishery Harbours economy, and most importantly, will force skippers to operate from more remote and less safe harbours, with a resulting lowering in passenger safety standards, a concurrent reduction in affected operators business, and inevitably, their business viability.
Conclusion
This imposition on Charter Skipper and Passenger Boat Skippers comes at a time when every effort should be being put into increasing tourism revenue, especially overseas revenue, and NOT into weakening and diminishing tourism infrastructure.
The Irish Charter Skippers Association calls on Minister Coveney to radically rethink these unjustified increases in charges, and instead consider what could be done to bolster the Recreational Sea Angling, Eco-tourism and tourist passenger businesses.
Donal Kennedy
Chairman
The Irish Charter Skippers Association
20th April 2012
Marine Times May 2012
move mouse over Marine Times page for a close up
Interview with Donal Kennedy about proposed Harbour Charges
on Waterford Local Radio
on Waterford Local Radio
