Move to halt the loss of fishing skills (From Western Telegraph)

Move to halt the loss of fishing skills

Concern that fishing industry skill and knowledge is being lost has prompted a joint initiative by Pembrokeshire College, the Prince's Trust and the South and West Wales Fishing Communities to encourage new recruits.

"Fishing is not a career that many consider nowadays," said Serena Allen, enterprise development officer with the Prince's Trust Wales.

"The days when Milford Haven and Swansea were thriving fishing ports may be over, but there is still a good and healthy living to be made from the sea by those who are prepared to work hard and fish responsibly," she added.

David Gardner is business training manager (fisheries) with the college, and a member of the board of the newly-formed South and West Wales Fishing Communities, which is working to ensure inshore fishermen and fishing communities in Wales have a sustainable future.

Mr Gardner regrets that many have left the industry for more secure jobs in offices, with the result that skill and knowledge built up over years at sea are being lost.

"Skippers are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit new blood to train and take over when they retire," he said.

The Prince's Trust Wales has already helped two local youngsters by providing funding to get them established and to join the Association, which will give them access to training programmes and further funding, representation and the advice of practising fishermen.

Information can be obtained from Serena on 01646 603138 or David on 01437 779231.