Introduction of a Points System for Fishing Vessel Masters

Overview

The purpose of the consultation is to seek views on our proposals to introduce a new system of points against masters of fishing vessels who are found guilty of serious fisheries offences.

The points system would see masters convicted in court of fisheries offences awarded a number of points, in addition to any penalties applied by the court.  These points would work in a similar fashion to the points scheme that has operated for many years in the driving licence system.  A series of points thresholds would lead to progressively longer periods when an individual could not act as the master of a fishing vessel.  At the extreme, permanent prohibition could result.  Minor fisheries infringements which do not result in conviction in court but are dealt with in other ways such as warning letters or financial administrative penalties will not attract points.