Vision

Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities will lead, champion and manage a sustainable marine environment and inshore fisheries, by successfully securing the right balance between social, environmental and economic benefits to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry.

Since their inception in 2011, the IFCAs have demonstrated a “can do” attitude and sought to deliver value for money by managing stakeholder led decisions to support local communities. At the same time the IFCAs are working towards the UK Governments commitments to deliver a well-managed network of Marine Protected Areas to help achieve the “Blue Belt” around the coast of Great Britain.

To celebrate the success of the first four years of the IFCAs, the Association of IFCAs has produced a report entitled “The Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities 2011-2015: Achievements and success in delivering fisheries and conservation management” which is available here

Councillor John Lamb, Chairman of the Association of IFCAs stated:

“It is both an exciting and challenging time for marine fisheries and conservation. The IFCAs are key to delivering an ambitious programme, seeking to achieve sustainable seas for the benefit of all. In the current climate of financial constraint the IFCAs have demonstrated value for money and a “can do” attitude. The IFCAs will continue to deliver through stakeholder engagement against a backdrop of the Governments “Blue Belt” initiative. The IFCAs balance the needs of EU Directives and the revision of the Common Fisheries Policies with local issues and an increased public awareness of the importance of marine management and conservation. Nevertheless sustainable funding for the IFCAs remains a key component of our continued success. The Association will continue to seek to raise awareness and support the IFCAs to carry out this important work.”

This Defra document outlines the IFCA vision, success criteria and high-level objectives which will shape Eastern IFCA’s work. Document, it is available to download or view here: IFCA Vision (PDF, 289KB)