South Streymoy Fishing Association challenges new fishing regulations in Faroe Islands

The South Streymoy Fishing Association has raised concerns over the stringent regulations imposed on commercial fishing boats, arguing that many of the requirements are unnecessary.

Last year, the Maritime Authority notified boat owners that they would need to have their vessels inspected in order to obtain sailing permits. The Authority claims that the requirements align with those in other Nordic countries.

A public meeting for commercial fishing boats in Group 5 was held last week, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Fishermen expressed that the costs associated with the inspections were disproportionately high compared to their incomes.

Many fishermen believe that safety measures are sufficient, citing their rescue equipment as adequate. The South Streymoy Fishing Association also contends that inspection notifications should not apply to fishing vessels operating on inland routes.

They argue that the existing legislation regarding rescue equipment is sufficient and appropriate. The Association has called on the government to amend the regulations. Fishermen assert that the Maritime Authority should not impose requirements simply to adhere to written regulations.

Hans Johannes á Brúgv, director of the Maritime Authority, mentioned at the meeting that more than half of the commercial fishing vessels currently lack sailing permits. He noted that the typical trend is for boats to start as recreational craft in Group 5B and later transition to Group 5A, which categorizes them as commercial vessels.

In the Faroe Islands, there are no requirements for recreational or fishing boats that do not qualify as commercial vessels.