The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) has published a new Fisheries Information Notice (FIN) to help prepare industry members for changes to the margin of tolerance rules for the recording of fish, which entered into force on July 10, 2024. The FIN can be accessed on sfpa.ie.
This FIN explains the updates to the margin of tolerance under Regulation (EU) 2023/2842, which amends the existing Control Regulation (Regulation No. 1224/2009). The margin of tolerance is the difference between the estimated quantity of species recorded by the master in the fishing logbook (estimated liveweight) and the actual weight of the species once weighed and converted to liveweight (live-weight equivalent). The permitted margin of tolerance under the Control Regulation is currently set at 10% for all species. From July 10, 2024, the margin of tolerance will increase to 20% for species with a live-weight equivalent (LWE) of 100 kg or less.
Additionally, specific derogations will be introduced for species landed unsorted in small pelagic fisheries, tropical tuna purse seine fisheries, and fisheries for industrial purposes. The margin of tolerance that applies to these fisheries depends on whether they are landed in a listed or non-listed port. The requirements for ports to become listed are detailed in the new Implementing Regulation No. 2024/1474. No European Union ports have been listed to date. Further information will be provided pending any approval by the European Commission to list ports within the jurisdiction of the Irish State.
Ireland’s electronic logbooks (ieCatch) will be updated to reflect these new rules following their entry into force on July 10, 2024. The SFPA will communicate with all electronic logbook users regarding these updates when they take place. All vessel operators should familiarize themselves with the new margin of tolerance rules in advance of the implementation date. The SFPA are committed to supporting compliance with both new and existing legislation and are available to provide guidance.
