Jersey seeks fisheries expert to help industry
PAThe Government of Jersey is seeking expertise to help it shape the future of the island's fishing economy.
The project, which is out for tender, will involve analysing the current state of the industry, engaging with local stakeholders and comparing Jersey to other jurisdictions, before providing a review of options.
It comes after reports some are leaving the industry amid rising costs and red tape.
The tender, for the Jersey Sustainable Future Fishing Economy Project, is open until the end of December.
In it, the government said it invited "agencies with expertise in fisheries, coastal economies or marine sector transformation to support the development of a comprehensive options appraisal for a sustainable future fishing economy".
It said the successful bidder would help to inform its "long-term strategic plan".
Recommendations set out in the review must be "economically viable" and are expected to "identify opportunities to strengthen Jersey's fisheries value chain, including areas such as branding, processing and export potential".
It also said the presentation of results would form "a key part of delivery".
In October, one Jersey scallop fisherman told the BBC he was leaving the trade after nearly two decades, due to spiralling costs and red tape.
Deputy Kirsten Morel, Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, has previously acknowledged the sector's struggles - stressing that the government was doing what it could to support the industry.
