Codling Wind Park is taking significant steps to support the fishing industry operating within and around the Codling Bank area of the Irish Sea. To this end, they are establishing a dedicated Fisheries Fund with a substantial budget of €500,000. This fund will provide financial support for various initiatives over the next five years, with an annual budget of €100,000.
The fund aims to benefit both inshore and offshore fishing activities carried out by fishers associated with the development. In a unique approach, Codling Wind Park is actively seeking input from fishers themselves regarding the utilization of the fund. To facilitate this, the project's fishing engagement manager regularly meets with local fishers to discuss the terms of reference and progress proposals directly with them.
Furthermore, Codling Wind Park is open to considering additional ideas that would support fishers. One such proposal under consideration is the establishment of a lobster hatchery. This innovative initiative would involve raising and releasing young lobsters back into the Irish Sea, thereby enhancing fishing opportunities. The project is actively engaging with fishers to explore the feasibility of this proposal, which holds the potential to contribute significantly to a sustainable and productive fishery in the area.
In addition to these measures, Codling Wind Park has published a Fisheries Charter, marking a significant milestone as the first code of its kind between an offshore wind developer and fishers in Ireland. The charter serves as a guide for the project's engagement with fishers and its commitment to the preservation of marine life on Codling Bank. It underscores the wind farm's dedication to sustainable development practices and responsible stewardship of the waters and seabed.
Scott Sutherland, co-project director of Codling Wind Park, emphasizes that the Fisheries Fund aims to support initiatives that benefit fishing communities as a whole, rather than favoring individual fishers. The fund's resources can be directed towards initiatives such as adding value to a fishery, improving port infrastructure, enhancing safety measures, or exploring innovative approaches and diversification within the fishery sector.
Sutherland further explains, “This fund will contribute to the long-term sustainability of fishing on Codling Bank, and we are committed to collaborating with fishers in the area to shape the terms of reference for this fisheries fund. It is crucial that we maximize the benefits this fund can generate for the fishing industry in the future. We value the insights and ideas of fishers, and we want to hear from them regarding the best utilization of this fund.”
Thomas Gellert, co-project director, adds, “Our commitment to the fishers who rely on Codling Bank is to help them build a sustainable future. Throughout our engagement with fishers, we have fostered an environment of sharing perspectives, enabling us to coexist harmoniously with the fishery. We take great pride in being the first developer in Ireland to publish a Fisheries Charter, which underscores our commitment to fair engagement with fishers, the promotion of marine biodiversity, and the development of sustainable fishing practices.”
