Seafish's Responsible Fishing Scheme marks certification milestones

Seafish UK's Responsible Fishing Scheme (RFS), which recognises fishing vessels that demonstrate best practice in fishing operations and crew welfare, has certified its 100th vessel, marking a significant milestone for the scheme.

The ‘Alison Kay', a whitefish vessel from Shetland owned by skipper James Anderson has met the strict standards set by the scheme, which is independently audited and backed by major retail and foodservice providers.

Anderson said: "Being the 100th certified RFS vessel is a proud moment for the Alison Kay, because it shows that looking after my crew is the priority while at sea. This qualification under the scheme both reassures my crew and those who buy my product know that I am doing everything within my power to have the safest voyages possible."

The RFS has also welcomed its first entire fleet onto the scheme. Interfish which operates out of the Port of Plymouth, now has all 10 vessels in its fleet certified.

The RFS, which is independently audited by specialist Certification Body, Acoura Marine, is the only scheme of its kind that checks compliance on board fishing vessels, including ethical and welfare criteria.

Aoife Martin, operations director at Seafish, said: "Achieving these two milestones shows the continued growth of the scheme, while the range of RFS members shows that certification is achievable for both large and small vessels, and that it's open to vessels across the country, from Shetland to Cornwall. Applying for the scheme is more straightforward than ever, and we would encourage all vessels that are adhering to best practice to apply to join this global standard."

Further information about RFS can be found at www.seafish.org/rfs/

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