The Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery (No. 2) Order 2024
On 25th November 2024, the UK government published The Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery (No. 2) Order 2024, which comes into force on 9th December 2024.
Background
The Thames Estuary is home to a valuable cockle fishery, which supports the livelihoods of many fishermen and their families. It covers the area from Clacton-on-Sea in Essex to Whitstable in Kent.
In 2021, the UK government implemented The Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery Order 2021. This legislation aimed to manage the fishery sustainably and ensure its long-term viability.
The Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery (No. 2) Order 2024
The Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery (No. 2) Order 2024 amends the 2021 legislation. Key changes include:
- New fishing seasons: The new order introduces two fishing seasons, with the first running from 1st September to 31st January and the second from 1st March to 31st July.
- Fishing restrictions: The order introduces restrictions on the number of cockles that can be taken per day and per week.
- Minimum landing size: The minimum landing size for cockles has been increased from 25mm to 28mm.
- Designated fishing areas: The order defines specific fishing areas within the Thames Estuary where cockling is permitted.
- Monitoring and reporting: The order requires fishermen to submit regular catch and effort reports to the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).
Objectives of the Legislation
The primary objectives of the Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery (No. 2) Order 2024 are:
- To conserve and manage the cockle stocks in the Thames Estuary.
- To ensure the long-term sustainability of the fishery.
- To protect the livelihoods of fishermen and their families.
- To minimize the impact of cockle fishing on the marine environment.
Implications
The new legislation will have a significant impact on the Thames Estuary cockle fishery. It is expected to:
- Reduce the number of cockles harvested per year.
- Improve the quality and size of cockles on the market.
- Protect the cockle population from overfishing.
- Ensure the long-term viability of the fishery.
Reactions
The new legislation has been welcomed by the fishing industry and conservation groups.
The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO) said that the changes “will help to protect the Thames Estuary cockle fishery for future generations.”
The Wildlife Trust said that the legislation “represents a significant step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Thames Estuary cockle fishery.”
Conclusion
The Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery (No. 2) Order 2024 is an important piece of legislation that will help to manage and conserve the Thames Estuary cockle fishery for future generations. The changes introduced by the order will ensure the sustainability of the fishery and protect the livelihoods of fishermen and their families.
The Thames Estuary Cockle Fishery (No. 2) Order 2024
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