Cefas News

Partnership delivers joined-up marine evidence

Cefas — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Yesterday two government bodies signed an innovative agreement that will enable cost savings and best use of complementary capabilities in each organisation.

The partnership agreement, signed by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), will support national obligations to achieve challenging objectives for marine nature conservation and biodiversity protection.

Closer collaboration in the collection of at-sea data will provide better evidence for decision-makers. Integrated monitoring programmes in the field - focusing on water chemistry, biodiversity, seabed imagery and sea-bird/mammal observations - will generate combined geodata sets that provide a more comprehensive view of the state of the marine environment.

Richard Judge, Cefas' Chief Executive, said: "I'm delighted to be able to sign this partnership agreement with our colleagues at JNCC. It's a great example of joint working to deliver the evidence that really helps to inform decisions about the marine environment."

This unique agreement and partnership also provides a basis for the more efficient use of Cefas' research vessel (a highly valuable government-owned asset) and further cost savings, as the needs of different government bodies are aligned.

The application of new technologies and innovations will be supported by the agreement. For example, anchored sampling devices were trialled in UK coastal waters to provide cost-effective baseline contaminant data and assess concentrations of some hazardous substances. Such remote devices demonstrated that more cost-effective methods could be used to gain valuable evidence.

Marcus Yeo, JNCC's Managing Director, said: "Access to the full range of Cefas expertise in marine data and evidence provision will underpin our delivery of biodiversity monitoring and surveillance strategies. JNCC are delighted to be able to realise the benefits from this partnership arrangement."

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment, based at Lowestoft since 1902. Operating as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), it works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone's well-being, health and prosperity. It is the UK's largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation, providing a uniquely comprehensive and flexible capability that supports sustainable management of UK inshore and shelf seas, and their associated resources. For more about Cefas' work see www.cefas.co.uk.
The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC)[1] is the statutory adviser to the UK government and devolved administrations on UK and international nature conservation. Working at the interface of science and policy, JNCC's work contributes to maintaining and enriching biological diversity, conserving geological features and sustaining natural systems. It is responsible for advising on marine nature conservation in offshore waters around the UK, and for working with the country conservation bodies to ensure there is a sound evidence base across the marine environment as a whole, and that international obligations are met in a consistent manner. This includes contributing to the establishment of Marine Protected Areas. See www.jncc.gov.uk/page-3 for more about the marine aspects of its work.
The partnership will support two policy areas in government: the assessment of Marine Conservation Zones, which are a new type of Marine Protected Area being set up under the Marine and Coastal Access Act; and support for the European Union's Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Through these ambitious pieces of legislation it is intended that the UK supports biodiversity and achieves a status level of "good" in the marine environment by 2020.
Cefas will contribute to the design and delivery of offshore biodiversity monitoring and surveillance, which JNCC is developing on behalf of, and in conjunction with, Defra and the devolved administrations. Together, they have identified members for a management board and a business and technical group, which will oversee the partnership and ensure that work is undertaken according to the agreed principles.

Press contacts

Anne McClarnon (Cefas): 01502 524370 / anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk
JNCC Communications team: 01733 866839 / communications@jncc.gov.uk

ENDS

[1] JNCC delivers the UK and international responsibilities of the four country conservation bodies: the Council for Nature Conservation and the Countryside, the Countryside Council for Wales, Natural England and Scottish Natural Heritage.

Cefas to invest in its Lowestoft facilities

Cefas — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:47:00 GMT

Following examination of the business case for renewal of its Lowestoft laboratories, Cefas has chosen to remain in its current Pakefield Road facilities and to invest to improve working conditions for its staff at that site.

In recent years there has been an expectation that Cefas’ need for modern laboratories could be fulfilled through the Waveney Campus project. However, in December 2009 the Waveney Campus project partners agreed that the longer-term risks to the project, in an increasingly challenging economic climate, were such that it was better to dissolve their partnership.

Efforts then switched to exploring two potential options for the agency’s future in Lowestoft:

to scale down the Waveney Campus design to a Cefas-only facility on the proposed site
to deal with immediate estate issues and extend the life of its current Pakefield Road site through relatively modest investment.

Cefas and its parent department, Defra, have now assessed initial feasibility assessments. The decision is now to progress the second option.

Richard Judge, Cefas’ Chief Executive, said: “We are, naturally, disappointed that we are not taking forward our plans for new-build, state-of-the-art facilities. However, I am confident that with relatively modest short-term investment we will be able to tackle a range of maintenance issues, and to provide better facilities for our staff. Our immediate focus will be on delivering these short-term improvements.”

Cefas believes that this investment could extend occupation of the Pakefield Road facilities by at least 5–7 years. The development of a longer-term solution will be considered again in due course.

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment and the UK’s largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation.It hasover 500 staff, two UK laboratories (in Lowestoft and Weymouth), its own ocean-going research vessel, and over 100 years’ experience. Operating as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Cefas works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone’s well-being, health and prosperity.
Bridging the interface between science, policy and delivery, Cefas provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships. Those relationships span the EU, government and its agencies, international fora, scientific institutions and research centres, universities, NGOs and industry. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.
Cefas, Waveney District Council and Suffolk County Council had intended to build a state-of-the-art scientific and administrative complex in Lowestoft, known as the Waveney Campus. The planned, environmentally sustainable building was designed to deliver world-class services whilst capitalising on the efficiencies that such a collaborative project could offer.

Press contact
Anne McClarnon: 01502 524370 / anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

ENDS

Biggest ever seizure of carp at Dover

Cefas — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 10:43:00 GMT

During the early hours of Friday, 26 February 2010, UK Border Agency officers at the Port of Dover, working in conjunction with the government's Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), intercepted the largest ever consignment of live carp from France.

The 120 fish, weighing between 25 and 50lbs, were discovered in four pallet-sized containers supported by oxygen cylinders in the rear of a Volvo FH12 lorry.

The FHI, based at Cefas, advises that it is illegal to import live coldwater fish unless from an EU "approved" zone and accompanied by a movement document issued by an authorised veterinary inspector.

The fish were confiscated and, in line with FHI/Defra policy, were subsequently destroyed to ensure that no disease is spread from their possible introduction into UK waters.

The driver of the lorry, a 49-year-old man from Horsham, West Sussex, has been reported with a view to prosecution and enquiries are continuing to identify others involved.

Stuart Katon, the FHI's Enforcement and Investigations Officer, said: "We are stepping up our 'intelligence led' fight against illegal importations and working closely with other agencies to target organised groups.

"This is an excellent result but we still need everyone in the angling community to remain vigilant and to report any information regarding this type of illegal activity to us in order that we can continue to be proactive in the future."

No further press releases will be issued pending the outcome of the case.

More information about the importation of live fish may be found by visiting www.efishbusiness.co.uk/imports/default.asp. Or interested parties may contact the Fish Health Inspectorate directly on 01305 206700 / fhi@cefas.co.uk. Stuart Katon can be contacted on 01305 20681.

All enquiries and any information supplied about potentially illegal movements of live fish will be dealt with in strict confidence.

Additional background information

Cefas is the UK's largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. Bridging the interface between science, policy and delivery, it operates as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). It provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships. Working both in the UK and internationally, it plays a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments. It has over 500 staff, two UK laboratories (in Lowestoft and Weymouth), its own ocean-going research vessel, and over 100 years of experience. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.
The Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), based at Cefas' Weymouth laboratory, is dedicated to maintaining and improving fish and shellfish health in England and Wales. Its primary role is to act for Defra and the National Assembly for Wales, Agriculture Department (NAWAD) in undertaking statutory and inspection duties resulting from the EU Fish Health regime and other national legislation in the area of fish and shellfish health. The Inspectorate is responsible for health certification of fish and shellfish movements from other countries, and runs an enforcement programme aimed at preventing the illegal importation of these animals. For more about movement controls and enforcement visit www.cefas.co.uk/fhi/movements.htm.
Smuggled fish pose a great risk of spreading disease to indigenous fish stocks and within native waters. Upon arrival in the UK, their original country of origin is often undetermined, and their health status and certification may also be uncertain. Simply deporting the fish back to their assumed country of origin does not stop repeated attempts to import them via another entry point.
Quarantine facilities at ports do not offer the best option for controlling potential fish diseases. In addition, continuing to keep fish in confined conditions (where they may have already been in transit for long periods) introduces further welfare issues. Therefore, humanely destroying the fish ensures that the UK remains disease-free, as much as practicable.

5 new tenders published under the Fisheries Science Partnership

Cefas — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:40:00 GMT

5 tenders have been published under the Fisheries Science Partnership:

FSP Project: Square mesh panel trials on twin or multi rig working inshore grounds: North Thames estuary: FSP 2010-11 (17)
FSP Project: Sardine and anchovy survey off South West England: FSP 2010-11 (18)
FSP Project: Bristol Channel 100mm cod end trials: FSP 2010-11 (19)
FSP Project: Red mullet gill net fishery discard reduction: FSP 2010-11 (20)
FSP Project: Modified commercial trawl survey: FSP 2010-11 (21)

For more information and to download the tender documents please visit the FSP tenders page.

Appointment of non-Executive Advisory Directors

Cefas — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Mr Michael Gates and Dr Sue Sharland have been appointed as non-Executive Advisory Directors to Cefas’ Management Board.

They officially assumed their posts on 1 January 2010, and have been appointed for a period of three years. They attended their first Board meeting last week.

Michael Gates is a Chartered Accountant and has an MBA from Cranfield. He has held senior positions with a number of blue chip companies including Shell, Glaxo and KPMG. More recently, he has held non-Executive roles with the NHS and the Ministry of Defence, including nine years with the UK Hydrographic Office.

Sue Sharland is the Chief Executive of TRL Limited, a position she has held since 2001. TRL is a world-leading supplier of impartial research, consultancy, software development and certification in the fields of transport and sustainable development. She is a non-Executive Director of HR Wallingford Group and a Trustee of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation.

Chief Executive Richard Judge said: “I am delighted to welcome both Michael and Sue to Cefas. Both bring valuable knowledge and directly relevant experience to our Board, and I’m sure that their expertise will help us to rise to the challenges we face in the coming years.

“I also thank Hugh Walker and Alex Tweedie, their predecessors, for many years of valued service and for the enormous difference they made during a period of extensive change.”

Michael and Sue will work alongside existing Cefas non-Executive Advisory Directors Andy Field and Joe Horwood.

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment and the UK’s largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. It has over 500 staff, two UK laboratories (in Lowestoft and Weymouth), its own ocean-going research vessel, and over 100 years’ experience. Operating as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Cefas works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone’s well-being, health and prosperity.
Bridging the interface between science, policy and delivery, Cefas provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships. Those relationships span the EU, government and its agencies, international fora, scientific institutions and research centres, universities, NGOs and industry. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.
The Cefas Management Board (CMB) comprises four non-Executive Advisory Directors and three Executive Directors. The latter includes the Chief Executive, who chairs the CMB in his capacity as Accounting Officer for the agency.

The non-Executive Advisory Directors advise and challenge the Board and Chief Executive, bringing an objectivity and independence of view to the CMB's discussions. They help provide the CMB with effective leadership in relation to the agency’s strategy, performance, risk and people management. In particular, they play a key role in ensuring high standards of financial probity and corporate governance through their role on the CMB’s external committees.

Press contact:
Anne McClarnon
Telephone: 01502 524370 / Email: anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

ENDS

Finfish News - Issue 8, Summer/Autumn 2009

Cefas — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:40:00 GMT

Finfish News - Issue 8, Summer/Autumn 2000 (PDF, 2.48 MB)

Articles

Tilapia workshop report
Vegetable oils in trout feeds
Invasive species conference report
Trout fin erosion project summary
Water quality and trout welfare project summary
Retirement of Steve Maidment
Barry Hill - prestigious OIE appointment and retirement from Cefas

Announcements

Defra consultation on KHV
Public register of Aquaculture Production Businesses
Fishery operators need to register under new Regulations
Scottish Government press releases
Obituary: Louise Andrews
New Troutlodge hatchery on the Isle of Man
Environment Agency announcements
Fishnewseu.com announcements
Fishupdate.com announcements

Trade Association News

British Trout Association
- European Fisheries Fund
- WWF Trout Dialogue
- A view of the UK trout industry
- Trout breeding programmes
- Red Mark Syndrome
Coarse Fish Traders Association

Production

2008 imports into England and Wales

Research News

Finfish in the Press

Information File

The Fish Health Inspectorate performance
Where to get help & advice
Useful publications
The activities of Cefas Weymouth

"Christmas dinner" carp seized at Dover

Cefas — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:56:00 GMT

UK Border Agency Officers at the Port of Dover, working in conjunction with the government’s Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), seized live carp destined for Christmas menus on two occasions prior to Christmas 2009.

The Inspectorate, based at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science, advises that it is illegal to import live coldwater fish unless from an EU “approved” zone and accompanied by a movement document issued by an authorised veterinary inspector.

In both pre-Christmas incidents the carp were being transported by Eastern European nationals whose paperwork was not in order.

On 16 December 2009 a white Ford Transit van was intercepted as it entered the Port, having travelled through France from the Czech Republic. Upon examination the vehicle was found to contain a quantity of foodstuffs, including four live carp.

In a second incident, on 21 December, a white VW van entered the Port from France with a large container of fish. Upon closer examination that consignment was found to contain 130 live carp.

The Eastern European occupants of both vehicles were interviewed and stated that the fish were intended for the “Christmas table”. Follow-up enquiries are continuing in each case with a view to pursuing prosecutions.

The fish were confiscated and, in line with FHI/Defra policy, were subsequently destroyed to ensure that no disease is spread from their possible introduction into UK waters.

Stuart Katon, the FHI’s Enforcement and Investigations Officer said: "We have past experience of Eastern European nationals attempting to import live carp for the table in the run up to Christmas. Some cultures regard carp as a delicacy. Nevertheless, importing fish without the correct documentation remains an illegal act.

"In response to recent incidents we will now be engaging with Eastern European communities based here in the UK to ensure that they are fully aware of the law and their legal responsibilities."

More information about the importation of live fish may be found by visiting www.efishbusiness.co.uk/imports/default.asp. Or contact the Fish Health Inspectorate directly on 01305 206700 / fhi@cefas.co.uk.

Stuart Katon can be contacted on 01305 20681. All enquiries and any information supplied about potentially illegal movements of live fish will be dealt with in strict confidence.

Notes to editors

Cefas is the UK’s largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. Bridging the interface between science, policy and delivery, it operates as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). It provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships. Working both in the UK and internationally, it plays a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments. It has over 500 staff, two UK laboratories (in Lowestoft and Weymouth), its own ocean-going research vessel, and over 100 years of experience. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.
The Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), based at Cefas’ Weymouth laboratory, is dedicated to maintaining and improving fish and shellfish health in England and Wales. Its primary role is to act for Defra and the National Assembly for Wales, Agriculture Department (NAWAD) in undertaking statutory and inspection duties resulting from the EU Fish Health regime and other national legislation in the area of fish and shellfish health. The Inspectorate is responsible for health certification of fish and shellfish movements from other countries, and runs an enforcement programme aimed at preventing the illegal importation of these animals. For more about movement controls and enforcement visit www.cefas.co.uk/fhi/movements.htm.
Carp were once a common food source in the UK. Now they are popular with UK anglers, who "catch and return" millions of carp every year. According to the Environment Agency, specialist big carp fishing has developed since the 1940s, and carp fishing has also led the way in fish care and protection on the bank.
Smuggled fish pose a great risk of spreading disease to indigenous fish stocks and within native waters. Upon arrival in the UK, their original country of origin is often undetermined, and their health status and certification may also be uncertain. Simply deporting the fish back to their assumed country of origin does not stop repeated attempts to import them via another entry point.
Quarantine facilities at ports do not offer the best option for controlling potential fish diseases. In addition, continuing to keep fish in confined conditions (where they may have already been in transit for long periods) introduces further welfare issues. Therefore, humanely destroying the fish ensures that the UK remains disease-free, as much as practicable.

Press contact
Anne McClarnon: 01502 524370 / anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

Devon trawlermen reduce discarded juvenile fish by almost 60 percent

Cefas — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:01:00 GMT

Radical approach by scientists to work alongside fishing fleet brings unprecedented results

An innovative partnership between scientists and the Devon beam trawler fleet aimed at helping to protect fish stocks, has led to skippers reducing the amount of juvenile fish discarded overboard by 57 percent, according to results announced today (Thursday, 3 December 2009).

This unprecedented success has been achieved, using modified nets as part of a revolutionary approach that uses a deep understanding of the behaviour and attitudes of fishermen. Previously this technique had only been used in health campaigns to change the public's lifestyles to reduce the UK's levels of cancer, obesity and sexually transmitted diseases.

Cefas scientists have worked closely with trawlermen who have volunteered to be involved in the project. Working in partnership they have drastically reduced the number of juvenile fish discarded overboard (typically because they have no market value or legislation forbids their landing and sale). Discarding is widely regarded as a waste of natural resources, disruptive to marine ecosystems and ethically undesirable. Before the trials, the Devon beam trawl fleet had one of the highest discard rates of English and Welsh fisheries.

Nicknamed Project 50% by all those involved, the voluntary trials aimed to reduce the number of juvenile fish thrown overboard by 50 percent. Many industry experts believed this to be an unrealistically high target, however the results published today show an unprecedented average reduction of 57 percent.

Dr Andy Revill of Cefas, the Project Manager for the Project 50% explains: "We have been working to reduce discards with fishermen for a number of years, but it has been hard to achieve lasting results. I had read about social research methods and so approached Defra to fund this pilot project to see if this would help fishermen develop more sustainable practices for themselves."

Dr Revill continues: "The starting point is to understand the lives and attitudes of fishermen in detail, so that we could successfully work in partnership to achieve the desired results. Because we now have a much better understanding of what it's like to be a trawlerman, and have built theproject from the bottom up, the fishermen have achieved amazing results. They have been inspired by this approach and taken pride in what they have achieved."

The full results of the trials are being launched at an event in Exeter today, by Michael Caines, the Devon-based celebrity chef. He is an enthusiastic supporter of the project: "Fishing has been carried out from Brixham and Plymouth for almost 1,000 years, with the area being famous for its high-quality deep sea fish such as sole, turbot and plaice together with wonderful cuttlefish and scallop. I am really proud of the way fishermen have volunteered to reduce their catches of juvenile fish to protect stocks."

Trawlermen have been looking at ways to ensure the results of this project are not just a "one off". In a further development to make positive changes towards sustainable fishing practice, South West producer organisations and trawler owners have also announced today that they are working towards Marine Stewardship Council accreditation, for its key fisheries.

FULL RESEARCH RESULTS, PHOTOS AND DVD FOOTAGE AVAILABLE TO JOURNALISTS
Michael Caines, Dr Andy Revill (Cefas scientist) and Simon Armstrong (Cefas scientist) available for comment or interview.

Note to editors

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Sciences (Cefas) is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment and the UK's largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. Operating as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Cefas provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships, both in the UK and internationally.

Press enquiries:
Sue Nelson on 07758 250808 (24 hours) or
Anne McClarnon on 01502 524370 Email: anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

Seafish are supporters of this project. Contact Gaynyr Dickson at Seafish for further comment on 0131 524 8658

Fact file

The Marine Fisheries Agency reports that there are around 13,000 fishermen working on 4,500 active vessels in the UK.
The 2008 Seafish survey estimates that if the UK fish catching sector was removed entirely, the impact on the UK would be the loss of around 28,000 jobs throughout the wider economy.
Discarding is widely regarded as a waste of natural resources, disruptive to marine ecosystems and ethically undesirable. Globally, 7.3 million tonnes of fish are discarded every year.¹
Beam trawlermen in Plymouth and Brixham are famed for their catches of sole, plaice and turbot. Beam trawler nets tend to have a mesh size of at least 80mm, which catches a high degree of benthos (typically larger starfish, decaying matter, shells, plants and debris). The benthos is ecologically important, but has no commercial value and is an unwelcome component of the catches. There are also substantial catches of juvenile and non-commercial fish, for which there is no market or their landing and sale is forbidden by legislation.
The net trials for Project 50% include bigger mesh sizes on nets to let juvenile fish escape. The two large "beams" on the boats are ideal for trials as one side can be used as a control, against the other with the new net designs. Catches can be directly compared, including the amount of benthos on deck and the number of juvenile fish discarded. The new nets are also lighter causing less drag from the boat so less horsepower is used, resulting in fuel savings. Reports from the skippers, so far, say the reduced benthos is giving an improved catch quality.
According to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Marine Accident Investigation Branch, the UK fishing industry experienced 180 fatal accidents between 1992 and 2006. These accidents resulted in the death of 256 fishermen, many times higher than for other areas within the UK workforce. For example, UK fishermen are subject to a fatal accident rate 24 times higher than construction workers.
Michael Caines was born in Exeter and is one of Britain's most acclaimed chefs. He lost his right arm in a car accident in 1994, but has successfully continued as a talented chef. He was AA Chef's Chef of the Year in 2007, and awarded an MBE in 2006. Michael is Executive Chef at Gidleigh Park, on the edge of Dartmoor where he has earned two Michelin stars. He recently took part in BBC2's "The Great British Menu", representing the South West for the honour of cooking for The Queen's 80th birthday.

[1]The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization estimate.

Food security for England: the future is fish

Cefas — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:57:00 GMT

A recent government-sponsored workshop concluded that increased English aquaculture production could help to contribute to increased food security across the UK.

The security of global fish stocks was labelled “very unfavourable” in a recent assessment of UK food security (the access to affordable safe and nutritious food). Yet, increased English aquaculture production could help to contribute to increased local production as a means of securing future supply, supporting local economies and delivering a carbon-efficient outcome.

The two-day event, co-sponsored by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), highlighted the fact that the UK population is forecast to grow to 71 million by 2035. In addition, there is a potential for growing consumer demand for fish and shellfish following the Food Standards Agency recommendations that individuals eat two portions of fish per week. If this recommendation was followed, it would require an additional 20 million portions of fish or shellfish per week.

English aquaculture can play a role in addressing these needs. Finfish production is the most efficient animal production (by quantity of feed to produced food). In addition, due to its geography England can provide onshore, offshore and inshore opportunities for aquaculture.

The workshop participants considered that a long-term enabling strategy for aquaculture plus access to better financial instruments were essential to ensure that English aquaculture would have the desired impact. Such a strategy for England should build on previous Scottish and Welsh experiences whilst recognising the differences between these countries.

Government policy-makers and scientists, plus representatives of the aquaculture industry, regulators, retailers, non-governmental organisations and pressure groups attended the workshop. Industry representatives were intent on establishing an English Producers’ “link” organisation to act as a focus for English aquaculture, potentially covering the production of trout, carp, tilapia, shellfish, new species and novel applications.

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment and the UK’s largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. It works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone’s well-being, health and prosperity. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.
Defra is the UK government department responsible for policy and regulations on the environment, food and rural affairs. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.defra.gov.uk/.
In England and Wales, there are some 197 trout farms and 128 shellfish farms; consideration of other fish species brings the total number of fish farms to more than 400. Total fish farm production in England and Wales is 8,127 tonnes (based on 2006 figures). The main finfish species farmed is rainbow trout (7,294 tonnes). There is also limited production of other species, such as brown trout (441 tonnes), carp (175 tonnes), Atlantic salmon (63 tonnes), turbot (63.5 tonnes), barramundi (45 tonnes) and tilapia (33 tonnes). Shellfish farm production totalled 15,449 tonnes in 2006, the main species cultivated being mussels (14,553 tonnes) and oysters (880 tonnes).
In monetary terms, English finfish farmed production was £23.5 million in 2006. UK shellfish wild capture production represents 35% of the volume and 51% of the value of UK fisheries landings, whilst UK shellfish cultivation production is £20 million, with English production (mainly mussels and pacific oysters) being £4.5 million.
Aquaculture is the fastest growing animal farming sector. Globally, farmed fish represented 12% of animal production in 2006, and it is anticipated that this will rise to 20% over the coming years. Aquaculture is the most efficient animal farming sector, with 1 tonne of feed producing almost 1 tonne of fish (compared to 150kg beef, 300kg pork and 500kg chicken). Globally, aquaculture now accounts for 47% of all fish consumed.
For more about the aquaculture industry’s economic importance, visit www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/fisheries/farm-health/aquaculture.htm.
A précis of the workshop discussions (PDF 40.8 KB) is available with this release.

Press contact
Anne McClarnon: 01502 524370 / anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk.

Shellfish News - Issue No. 28, Autumn/Winter 2009

Cefas — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:30:00 GMT

Shellfish News - Issue No. 28, Autumn/Winter 2009 (PDF, 6.02 MB)

Articles

Shellfish Industry Development Strategy
Pacific oyster mortalities - an emerging disease?
A lesson on the distinction between validity & vindication
European abalone aquaculture
The 17th International Pectinid Workshop
Shellfish Restoration Conference

Announcements

Cefas expert is new president of OIE Animal Health Commission
Draft standards for sustainable bivalve aquaculture
Scottish Aquaculture leaders announced
English aquaculture needs a strategy
Blackwater oysters aim for blue label
Hat-trick of awards for Blueshell Mussels
Loch Ryan Shellfish
World first for Scottish shellfish
Protecting our seas from climate change
Record native oyster found

News from Seafish

Benefits of HPP
Animal By-Products Regulation

News from the Trade Associations

SAGB
ASSG

Monitoring Reports

Shellfish Biotoxin monitoring programme for England and Wales - 1st April 2008 To 31st March 2009
Shellfish Biotoxin Monitoring Programme for Scotland - 1st April 2008 To 31st March 2009
Classification Monitoring Programme for England and Wales - Annual Review 2008-2009

Shellfish Production

Shellfish production in the UK in 2008
World Shellfish production
UK Shellfish Imports and Exports in 2008

Research News

Shellfish in the Press

Information File

Where to get help and advice

Season's greetings from Cefas

Cefas — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 20:32:00 GMT

In support of our sustainable development target, we have chosen to send this electronic card to reduce the use of paper.

Previous health and safety practice attracts Crown Censure

Cefas — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:13:00 GMT

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) in Suffolk has accepted a Crown Censure for health and safety breaches. A Crown Censure is the equivalent of a prosecution for a government body.

Investigations by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in October 2007 at the Cefas laboratory in Pakefield Road, Lowestoft identified failings in the assessment and control of substances hazardous to health for known carcinogenic substances, including a failure to maintain control measures. Inspectors also identified that Cefas had failed to provide sufficient health surveillance between 2005 and 2006.

These failings breached Regulations 6, 7(5)(c), 9 and 11 of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (as amended). The failings have since been remedied.

The Censure was accepted on the basis that while the investigation identified failings in the management and control on hazardous substances there was no evidence of harm to any employee, nor was there evidence of a defined, identified risk.

Richard Judge, Cefas' Chief Executive said: "We take health and safety very seriously. Nonetheless, four breaches of COSHH regulations were identified and these are regrettable.

"We have worked closely with the HSE to address specific issues raised as a consequence of their investigations. There have been investments to improve plant and equipment, a strengthening of health and safety practices more generally, and recruitment to reinforce our capability in this important area.

"We are grateful to our staff for their energy and support in helping us respond to the HSE's findings. There have been positive outcomes from this experience."

The HSE acknowledged many mitigating features, including a good health and safety record, Cefas' responsible approach to health and safety, and that Cefas had a comprehensive safety management system in place.

Cefas complied fully, and within the accepted timeframes, to deal with the concerns highlighted by the HSE. In recent visits by the HSE to Cefas, they have confirmed that the improvements have been sustained and extended.

Notes to editors

While the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 apply to Crown bodies, including departments and agencies, Crown immunity means such bodies are excluded from the provisions for statutory enforcement, including prosecution and penalties. Cabinet Office Personnel Information Note 45 (PIN 45), which deals with the enforcement procedures for Crown bodies, including Crown Censures, can be found on HSE's website at: http://www.hse.gov.uk/foi/internalops/sectors/public/7_01_34.pdf
Cefas has made substantial improvements, including strengthening controls and procedures relating to the use of fume cupboards, encouraging and enabling regular communication between contractors and staff regarding the maintenance of laboratory equipment, addressing housekeeping issues and protocols, and instigating a more formalised process to improve staff awareness of the possible health effects of the chemicals being handled. A strong health and safety culture is embedded in the agency, and Cefas reviews its H&S action plans as part of its routine business practice.

New initiative addresses threats from marine chemical and oil spills

Cefas — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:20:00 GMT

A new government-backed initiative has been launched to provide a more integrated and robust approach to chemical and oil spills in the marine and coastal environment.

The "PREMIAM" project (pollution response in emergencies - marine impact assessment and monitoring) is led by Cefas scientists and will provide a high-quality and co-ordinated post-incident monitoring and impact assessment service to a range of government and other stakeholders.

Chemical and oil spills in the marine environment remain a significant threat. Rapid response, improved preparedness and effective post-incident monitoring and assessment are key to tackling such damaging incidents.

Better and more effective post-incident monitoring will deliver:

early evidence of potential impacts
appropriate ways of investigating the impacts on the wider marine environment
important information about the efficacy of spill response activities, including the use of dispersants
a methodology that not only assesses short-term impacts, but also enables the prediction of potential and longer-term impacts
more effective use of resources, so that unnecessary procedures are avoided and potentially useful ones are not overlooked.

Cefas' Mark Kirby, PREMIAM's Project Co-ordinator, says: "There are no established expert guidelines in the UK for post-incident monitoring and impact assessment. Nor, indeed, is there a fully co-ordinated mechanism for overseeing the practical aspects of such a programme.

"So PREMIAM will provide a very useful function that could make a real difference in critical situations.

"It should enable us to provide, amongst other things, a fast response so that we gain early impact information, easy identification of available expertise at any given time, and a really cost-effective use of resources."

The PREMIAM initiative will develop and maintain two fundamental things:

impact assessment and monitoring guidelines (the PREMIAM plan)
a network of scientific and logistical partners to deliver the plan (the PREMIAM network).

Additional notes

Cefas chairs the PREMIAM steering group, which oversees this initiative. Its membership is comprised of representatives from all the main government stakeholders (including those with regulatory, response and conservation interests), which will ensure an integrated approach.
Through the production of expert guidelines and the generation and maintenance of a national network of experts and service providers, PREMIAM will ensure:
- speed - fast response helps to gain early impact or baseline information concerning areas at threat
- the identification of relevant expertise, and potential availability
- use of appropriate techniques
- "best practice" is applied, and the ability to learn from previous responses
- co-ordination and integration
- cost-effectiveness.
Potential suppliers of post-incident services (eg, suppliers of analytical or sampling capability, ecological surveys, storage, etc) are welcome to express an interest in becoming part of the network. They should contact premiam@cefas.co.uk or mark.kirby@cefas.co.uk directly.
For more about PREMIAM, visit www.premiam.org.

Successful workshop considered sustainable aquaculture

Cefas — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:31:00 GMT

The future sustainability of English aquaculture was discussed at Cefas this week.

A range of stakeholders from the finfish farming and shellfish industries, fish feed suppliers, universities, regulators and non-governmental organisations met for a high-level workshop, co-sponsored by Cefas and Defra.

The workshop, “Towards a Sustainable Finfish Aquaculture Industry for England”, included a wide-ranging series of presentations and opportunities for in-depth discussion.

One of the objectives of the workshop was to look at ways that government might support the aquaculture industry. Defra’s Lee McDonough posed a series of key questions to prompt discussion, such as:

Can English aquaculture meet our food security needs?

Should it?

What should industry’s role be?

What should government’s role be?

What are the opportunities (eg, the moves towards renewable energy)?

What are the challenges?

Cefas’ Keith Jeffery said: “The workshop was an incredible success, bringing together people from different backgrounds. The presentations prompted valuable discussions, and the workshop provided much food for thought. It will help us to develop a meaningful framework in future.”

Aquaculture strategies adopted by other UK countries, for example Scotland and Wales, were discussed and the workshop participants agreed that much could be learned from those.

One participant said it was “good to see a little more into the role of Cefas and how it all works – most beneficial. ...We enjoyed the event immensely and found it very useful for our Tilapia cause ... [we] are keen to advance matters further as regards working closely with [Cefas] and Defra”.

Another participant said: “I have been to a great many conferences and workshops, but the Weymouth one was really excellent. It was very well run, a great venue, superb hospitality and a warm welcome… Congratulations to you and your Cefas team for a very well run meeting.”

Achieving sustainable food security from marine fish and shellfish stocks is not always easy or straightforward. This has led policy-makers, scientists and others to re-evaluate the potential of aquaculture to provide sustainable fish and shellfish for the English public’s table.

The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization and other international bodies have repeatedly pointed to the importance of sustainably farmed fish and shellfish in delivering food security. In addition, the health benefits of eating oily fish have been highlighted by the UK’s Food Standards Agency.

The agenda and topics covered at the workshop may be found here.
A strategic review, commissioned by Defra, about the potential for aquaculture to contribute to food security in England (specifically), was published in April 2009.
For more about Cefas' role and sustainable aquaculture, visit our Products and services section.

Securing fish for food

Cefas — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:16:00 GMT

Workshop to discuss English plans for sustainable aquaculture

A major two-day workshop, to consider sustainable aquaculture in England, is being co-sponsored by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). It will be held at Cefas’ laboratory in Weymouth on 13–14 October and starts at 9:30.

There is a strong aquaculture industry in Scotland, and Wales has a robust aquaculture strategy. In England, a policy on and strategy for sustainable aquaculture is still emerging. Therefore, the objective of the workshop is to produce a clear understanding and action plan for the future of aquaculture in England.

Keith Jeffery, from Cefas, says: “We know that almost half of all fish consumed in the UK is from farmed sources. If we are serious about encouraging more consumption of fish, and we need to sustainably deliver that, we will need a clear approach to finfish aquaculture in England.

“The purpose of this workshop is to work through some of the practical issues and to arrive at a plan of action for the future.”

Policy-makers, members of the aquaculture industry, scientists, pressure groups and retailers will meet for two days of presentations and discussion.

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment and the UK’s largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. It has over 500 staff, two UK laboratories (in Lowestoft and Weymouth), its own ocean-going research vessel, and over 100 years of experience.
Operating as an executive agency of Defra, Cefas works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone’s well-being, health and prosperity.
Bridging the interface between science, policy and delivery, Cefas provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships. Those relationships span the EU, government and its agencies, international fora, scientific institutions and research centres, universities, NGOs and industry. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.
Scientists based at Cefas’ Weymouth laboratory work specifically on aspects of fish health, disease and welfare. The Weymouth facility has both UK and EU Reference Laboratory status for a range of aquatic animal diseases. In addition, the Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), which inspects fish farms among other duties, is also based there. For more about the FHI see www.cefas.co.uk/fhi.
In England and Wales, there are 197 trout and other finfish farms and 128 shellfish farms. Total fish farm production in England and Wales is 8,127 tonnes (based on 2006 figures).The main finfish species farmed is rainbow trout (7,294 tonnes). There is also limited production of other species, such as brown trout (441 tonnes), carp (175 tonnes) Atlantic salmon (63 tonnes), turbot (63.5 tonnes), barramundi (45 tonnes) and tilapia (33 tonnes).

Shellfish farm production totalled 15,449 tonnes in 2006, the main species cultivated being mussels (14,553 tonnes) and oysters (880 tonnes).

For more about the aquaculture industry’s economic importance, and regulations relating to it, visit
www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/fisheries/farm-health/aquaculture.htm.

The agenda for the workshop, “Towards a Sustainable Finfish Aquaculture Industry for England”, is included in the Annex to this release.

Press contact
Anne McClarnon: Telephone: 01502 524370 / Email: anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

Annex

“Towards a Sustainable Finfish Aquaculture Industry for England”

Two-day workshop, 13–14 October 2009 at Cefas in Weymouth, Dorset

Driver
Food security and how to supplement dwindling returns from the catching sector whilst taking into account the many issues around sustainability.

Objective
To bring together stakeholders from all areas (producers, engineers, regulators, scientists, policy-makers and non-governmental organisations) in order to discuss a shared vision and strategy for sustainable aquaculture in England. The main focus will be the potential that differing types of aquaculture have within England. Finfish will be the primary focus but we will also touch on shellfish and crustacea.

Agenda

Day 1
Introduction
9.30–10.00	*Arrival and registration*
10.00–10.10	Opening and welcome to Cefas – Stephen Irving Outline of two days, science objective, H&S, etc
10.10–10.20	Defra address – Lee McDonough An introduction to food security with an overview of supply and demand for fish, and the FSA’s views on consumption of oily and non-oily fish. Outline of the requirement to increase aquaculture production.
10.20–10.50	An aquaculture strategy for England – Chris Preston An overview of the need for a strategy and progress.
1 The potential for existing finfish aquaculture (Chair: Steve Irving)
10.50–1.20	Large-scale intensive recirculation systems and their potential development within England – Dr Mark Burdass
11.20–11.40	*Coffee break*
11.40–12.10	The potential of English trout farms to increase output with special reference to the Danish model trout farms – David Bassett
12.10–12.40	A global outlook for tilapia and the potential for growth in the UK tilapia industry – Eric Roderick
12.40–13.00	Q&A panel discussion
13.00–14.15	*Buffet lunch and lab tour*
2 Aquaponics and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (Chair: Keith Jeffery)
14.15–14.45	Aquaponics, energy efficiency, and an ecosystem approach to food production – Charlie Price
14.45–15:15	Recirculation systems for fish and shrimp with integrated hydroponics – Dr Mark Rigby
15.15–15.35	*Tea and biscuits*

3 Offshore marine organic backyard aquaculture (Chair: Chris Preston)
15.35–16.05	The potential for offshore aquaculture around the coast of England – Dr Mark James
16.05–16.35	The Aqua-vision concept of organic carp and backyard fish farming – Jimmie Hepburn
16.35–17.00	Q&A panel discussion
17.00	*Close of day one*
19.30–22.00	*Evening meal*

Day 2
09.00–9.15	*Coffee on arrival*
4 Regulation and certification (Chair: Jason Weeks)
9.15–9.45	Aquatic Animal Health Directive and the Fish Health Inspectorate – Dr Kevin Denham
9.45 to 10.15	WWF Aquaculture Dialogue standards and ASC certification – Dr Piers Hart
5 Sustainability strategies (Chair: David Verner-Jeffrey)
10.15–10.55	The current shellfish industry development strategy and why shellfish could be important in an English aquaculture strategy – Dr Tom Pickerell
10.55–11.15	*Coffee*
11.15–11.45	Welsh aquaculture industry and strategy – Robin Shields
11.45–12.15	Feed sustainability: current status, future prospects and consumer attitudes – Dr Paul Morris
12.15–12.30	Q&A panel discussion
12.30–12.40	Introduction to the remainder of the day (breakout sessions on different aspects of aquaculture) – Jason Weeks
12.40–13.30	*Buffet lunch*

Ends

FHI re-confirm legal position surrounding French carp imports

Cefas — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Some in the coarse fishing community in England and Wales are still not entirely sure about the legal position surrounding the importation of French carp.

Stuart Katon, the Fish Health Inspectorate’s (FHI) Enforcement and Investigations Officer, said: “Perhaps surprisingly given our recent statement regarding this issue I have again been contacted by respected representatives from the coarse fishing community who are still not entirely clear about the current legal position regarding fish imports.

“To avoid any further confusion I can verify on behalf of the Fish Health Inspectorate that we will not under any circumstances authorise the movement of fish from France into Great Britain.”

Recent media reports about the proposed importation of record-sized carp from a source in France to a fishery in England prompted the FHI – based at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) – to issue a news release and related information about carp importation rules. This can be seen at www.cefas.co.uk/news-and-events/news-releases/news-releases-2009/french-carp-the-facts.aspx.

The FHI have now identified all the individuals involved in the proposed importation, which was the subject of news coverage in the angling press. These people have since been visited and advised by senior Inspectors from the FHI.

Inspectors advised the fishery owner that, at present, it is illegal to import carp from France, irrespective of what any French supplier or potential UK importer may claim.

Stuart Katon can be contacted on 01305 206811, or the FHI can be reached at 01305 206700. All enquiries and any information supplied will be dealt with in strict confidence.

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment and the UK’s largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. It has over 500 staff, two UK laboratories (in Lowestoft and Weymouth), its own ocean-going research vessel, and over 100 years of experience. Operating as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Cefas works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone’s well-being, health and prosperity.
Bridging the interface between science, policy and delivery, Cefas provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships. Those relationships span the EU, government and its agencies, international fora, scientific institutions and research centres, universities, NGOs and industry. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.
The Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), based at Cefas’ Weymouth laboratory, is dedicated to maintaining and improving fish and shellfish health in England and Wales. Its primary role is to act for Defra and the National Assembly for Wales, Agriculture Department (NAWAD) in undertaking statutory and inspection duties resulting from the EU Fish Health regime and other national legislation in the area of fish and shellfish health.
The Inspectorate is responsible for health certification of fish and shellfish movements from other countries, and runs an enforcement programme aimed at preventing the illegal importation of these animals. It also has responsibility for licensing of non-native crayfish and the enforcement of that keeping legislation. For more about movement controls and enforcement visit www.cefas.co.uk/fhi/movements.htm.

Press contact:
Anne McClarnon: Telephone: 01502 524370 / Email: anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

French carp: the facts

Cefas — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:00:00 GMT

There have been several media reports about the proposed import of record-sized carp from a source in France to a fishery in England over the last few weeks.

The government's Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), based at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), can confirm that at present it is illegal to import carp from France, irrespective of what any French supplier or potential UK importer may claim.

A basic principle of disease control within the EU is that any claim for status for a particular disease is only possible if that disease is notifiable in the Member State concerned. Spring Viraemia of Carp (SVC), for instance, is not a notifiable disease in France nor in many other EU countries. Therefore the French competent authorities are unable to sign the appropriate health certification for carp exports.

The FHI has spoken to the fishery owner, who advertised his intention to import record-sized carp from France, to explain that the planned import is illegal. The FHI are seeking the owner’s help to identify the importer. The Inspectorate will contact the importer to ensure that they are aware that any import from France would be illegal.

Stuart Katon, FHI Enforcement and Investigations Officer said: “Fishery owners being offered fish from a supposedly disease-free source in France, or any other country, should contact us so that we can advise on the legality of the proposed import and take action against any illegal importers.”

Stuart Katon can be contacted on 01305 206811, or the FHI can be reached at 01305 206700. All enquiries and any information supplied will be dealt with in strict confidence.

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific research and advisory establishment and the UK’s largest and most diverse applied marine science organisation. It has over 500 staff, two UK laboratories (in Lowestoft and Weymouth), its own ocean-going research vessel, and over 100 years of experience. Operating as an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Cefas works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone’s well-being, health and prosperity.

Bridging the interface between science, policy and delivery, Cefas provides evidence-based scientific advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging relationships. Those relationships span the EU, government and its agencies, international fora, scientific institutions and research centres, universities, NGOs and industry. For more detail about its range of activities visit www.cefas.co.uk.

The Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), based at Cefas’ Weymouth laboratory, is dedicated to maintaining and improving fish and shellfish health in England and Wales. Its primary role is to act for Defra and the National Assembly for Wales, Agriculture Department (NAWAD) in undertaking statutory and inspection duties resulting from the EU Fish Health regime and other national legislation in the area of fish and shellfish health.

The Inspectorate is responsible for health certification of fish and shellfish movements from other countries, and runs an enforcement programme aimed at preventing the illegal importation of these animals. It also has responsibility for licensing of non-native crayfish and the enforcement of that keeping legislation. For more about movement controls and enforcement visit www.cefas.co.uk/fhi/movements.htm.

Supplementary information about carp importation, including the basic requirements for imports into Great Britain, can be found in the Annex to this release.

Press contact:
Anne McClarnon: Telephone: 01502 524370 / Email: anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

Annex

Carp import rules

The legislation relating to the import of any carp is straightforward.

For fish to be properly health-certified by the competent authorities (CA) of an EU source country, any export source must have animal health status equivalent to, or higher than, that of Great Britain.

In order to gain status for any given disease the source country must:

have an effective CA able to carry out disease controls, supported by suitable legislation
make that disease notifiable. A notifiable disease is one where any suspicion of its presence must be reported to the CA. They must carry out suitable investigations to confirm its presence, place controls to prevent its spread, and take action to trace its source.
have evidence that the source of fish is free of the disease, either on historic grounds or by means of specific surveillance for that disease.

Disease freedom can be recognised at country, zone or compartment level.

A zone comprises a water catchment or several adjacent water catchments with common health status and health controls.

A compartment is a farm or group of farms working to a common standard of disease control, which is isolated from the surrounding environment.

The above points are specific criteria that must be met in order to claim disease freedom at each of the three levels noted.

For imports of carp to Great Britain, the basic requirements are as follows:

Fish must be from a source certified to be free of Spring Viraemia of Carp (SVC).
They must be from a source that poses no risk of transferring any other notifiable disease, such as Gyrodactylus salaris, to Great Britain.

In practice, this usually means that the source would be a fully isolated farm, which has been subject to specific diagnostic testing for SVC for at least two years. Though one or two countries can certify their whole territory to meet these requirements.

While there are a number of potential sources able to meet these criteria, few hold the large carp that are so much in demand by certain fisheries.

It is likely that the number of legitimate sources for carp will reduce further, should the UK government choose to pursue “control and eradication” status for Koi herpesvirus (KHV) disease, following its recent consultation with industry.

Anyone wishing to import fish for farming or release to fishery waters must be authorised by the FHI. The Inspectorate ensures that all proposed imports come from farm sites able to meet the above criteria, before giving authorisation to import.

The FHI, based at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science, can be contacted at fhi@cefas.co.uk or on 01305 206700.

Cefas to offer further training courses on the EU aquatic animal health regime

Cefas — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:03:00 GMT

Following successful training courses in 2008 and 2009 Cefas is to offer further training and workshops on the aquatic animal health regime to facilitate safe trade in aquatic animals and products between EU member states, and allow their import from third countries to the EU.

The implementation of the harmonised aquatic animal health rules for the import of aquatic animals, and products thereof into the EU, and the new aquatic animal health regime, resulting from EU Directive 2006/88, has caused some confusion for authorities in the EU and third countries. This has resulted in problems for trade within the EU and imports into the EU as demonstrated by the inadequacy of some health certification accompanying consignments in trade. With FVO inspections for both EU member states and third countries likely as a result, the aim of the courses is to help clarify the application of the rules, provide a basic checklist for action and a health check prior to any such FVO missions. This should ensure that any risks arising from trade are kept to a minimum.

The latest course planned for early September 2009 over four days is aimed at those in senior policy posts in EU member states and those charged with the implementation of the regime. Other courses are planned for authorities in third countries. There are also plans to offer training to industry and other agencies coming in contact with aquatic animal businesses specifically covering bio-security and the risk based approach to managing aquatic animal health both in aquatic production businesses and in trade more generally.

More information

Cefas comments on Sunday Times story

Cefas — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:59:00 GMT

The Sunday Times story, "Quango executives grab 20% pay rises", prominently reports on both Richard Judge, Cefas' Chief Executive, and the agency.

The perception created by the headline misrepresents the facts:

Richard Judge was recruited to Cefas in February 2007 on a base salary of £115,000. His contract included the possibility of earning up to a 15% bonus on top of that salary.
His contract has not changed since his appointment in February 2007 and is comparable to others' in similar roles in the civil service.
In common with Chief Executives across the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' (Defra's) network, and in line with the recommendations of the Senior Salaries Review Body, he received a pay rise of 2.5% in April 2008.
2007-08 was Richard Judge's first full year in post. He became eligible for a bonus in 2008-09, and a bonus of 15% (£17,250) was paid. This payment reflected achievement against agreed performance targets in the previous financial year.
Any salary increase or bonus payment is determined by Defra's Pay Committee, and is directly linked to Richard Judge's performance and delivery of Cefas' strategic objectives.
Details of the Chief Executive's salary and bonuses are published annually in Cefas' externally audited accounts.

Cefas Annual Report and Accounts 2008–09 published

Cefas — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:30:00 GMT

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) published its Annual Report and Accounts 2008-09 today, on 9 July 2009. The report describes Cefas' major achievements for the year and charts the agency's progress against its strategy.

As an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the document also outlines Cefas' performance against ministerial targets - all of which were achieved.

Cefas' Chief Executive, Richard Judge, said: "It has been a hugely successful year. We continued to deliver high-quality science and have gained very positive feedback from our customers.

"Working collaboratively across government, the science community and industry means that we are in a very strong position - providing an almost unique perspective to inform the government's sustainability and marine agendas. The report highlights numerous examples of our staff's talent and commitment to really making a difference for society."

Some of those examples include:

Cefas scientists tested over 5,000 samples from across the UK on behalf of the Food Standards Agency, to protect consumers from ill health through the ingestion of shellfish toxins. In addition, the agency has made significant strides in limiting and replacing the use of animals for such testing regimes.
Cefas supplied the Environment Agency and the Met Office with "real-time" data to help alert vulnerable communities to potential storms and damaging waves or high tides. Its WaveNet system - using buoys and satellite relays - was extended in 2008-09 to include additional locations off the Scottish coastline.
An international workshop, led by Cefas, helped to develop practical tools for planners assessing conflicting uses and potential impacts on marine ecosystems. The agency also demonstrated how its IT systems, acoustic mapping devices and data-sharing initiatives across organisations support the requirements of the forthcoming Marine and Coastal Access Bill, currently being considered by Parliament.
The agency's scientists continued to work closely with the fishing industry - through the Fisheries Science Partnership and other initiatives - to test adapted fishing nets andimplement measures that secure sustainable fisheries and future jobs.
An innovative, international project to track the migration of European eels was launched in 2008. Led by Cefas, the project hopes to uncover some of the biological secrets of this iconic but dwindling species.

Other achievements included:

successfully relocating its Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, facility to Lowestoft, Suffolk - delivered within budget and to an accelerated timescale
a partnership agreement with the University of East Anglia, including a jointly funded lectureship
strong business growth, despite ever-increasing economic pressures across government
praise for its Fisheries Science Partnership team at the national Civil Service Awards.

Copies of the Cefas Annual Report and Accounts 2008-09 were placed in the library of the House of Commons this morning.

Notes to editors

Cefas is an internationally renowned scientific establishment, based at Lowestoft since 1902. It provides evidence-based advice, manages related data and information, conducts world-class scientific research, and facilitates collaborative action through wide-ranging international relationships. It works alongside government and other agencies, both in the UK and internationally, to play a vital role in securing healthy marine and freshwater environments for everyone's well-being, health and prosperity. For more about Cefas visit www.cefas.co.uk.
Printed copies of the Cefas Annual Report and Accounts 2008-09 (ISBN 978-0-10-295901-7), price £19.15, are available from TSO, PO Box 29, Norwich NR3 1GN (General enquiries: 0870 600 5522); or from the Cefas library (01502 52 4210).
An electronic (PDF) version of the report is available to download from the Cefas website: at www.cefas.co.uk/about-us/annual-report-and-accounts.aspx.

Press contact:
Anne McClarnon: Telephone: 01502 524370 / Email: anne.mcclarnon@cefas.co.uk

Cefas News

Partnership delivers joined-up marine evidence

Notes to editors

Cefas to invest in its Lowestoft facilities

Notes to editors

Biggest ever seizure of carp at Dover

Additional background information

5 new tenders published under the Fisheries Science Partnership

Appointment of non-Executive Advisory Directors

Notes to editors

Finfish News - Issue 8, Summer/Autumn 2009

Contents

Articles

Announcements

Trade Association News

Production

Research News

Finfish in the Press

Information File

"Christmas dinner" carp seized at Dover

Notes to editors

Devon trawlermen reduce discarded juvenile fish by almost 60 percent

Radical approach by scientists to work alongside fishing fleet brings unprecedented results

Note to editors

Fact file

Food security for England: the future is fish

Notes to editors

Shellfish News - Issue No. 28, Autumn/Winter 2009

Season's greetings from Cefas

Previous health and safety practice attracts Crown Censure

Notes to editors

New initiative addresses threats from marine chemical and oil spills

Additional notes

Successful workshop considered sustainable aquaculture

Securing fish for food

Workshop to discuss English plans for sustainable aquaculture

Notes to editors

Annex

“Towards a Sustainable Finfish Aquaculture Industry for England”

Two-day workshop, 13–14 October 2009 at Cefas in Weymouth, Dorset

FHI re-confirm legal position surrounding French carp imports

Notes to editors

French carp: the facts

Notes to editors

Annex

Carp import rules

Cefas to offer further training courses on the EU aquatic animal health regime

Cefas comments on Sunday Times story

Cefas Annual Report and Accounts 2008–09 published

Notes to editors