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At the heart of NIFCA’s mission is the belief that sustainable marine management is a shared responsibility. We are committed to a policy of transparency, ensuring that the evidence we use to protect Northumberland’s waters is accessible and that the voices of those who rely on the sea are heard.
Fisheries consultations are the formal channels we use to bridge the gap between research data and the real-world experience of our valued stakeholders.
Our core values
NIFCA values transparency not just as a statutory requirement, but as a fundamental tool for fair regulation. By making our decision-making processes public, we create accountability for the communities we serve.
We prioritise the digital accessibility of our research and reports, allowing fishers, conservationists, and the public to see the exact data driving our management measures. This open-access approach builds trust and means that when new regulations are proposed, they are viewed as necessary, justified, and evidence-led.
The purpose of engagement
A consultation is a formal process where NIFCA invites stakeholders to provide feedback on proposed management measures, byelaws, and marine policies. These fisheries consultations take place before a byelaw is made to ensure those likely to be affected, such as commercial and recreational fishers, environmental groups, and statutory bodies like Natural England and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), are included.
This early involvement helps us identify potential impacts, refine the wording of regulations, and make sure that our management is appropriately targeted at harmful activities while remaining practical for those working in the Northumberland district.
Shape the future of our district
Your views are essential to the direction of fisheries management on the Northumberland coast. We invite you to explore our dedicated page for current opportunities to have your say. Your participation ensures a balanced and sustainable future for our marine environment.