“Conserving our Marine Environment and Inshore
Fisheries”
Annual Plan 2015 - 2016
NIFCA’s new patrol vessel St. Aidan
(artist’s impression)
The Northumberland Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority
8 Ennerdale Road
Blyth
Northumberland
NE24 4RT
Telephone:
Email:
Website:
01670 797 676
nifca@nifca.gov.uk
www.nifca.gov.uk
An Admiralty chart of the district can be found on the Authority website.
(i)
Contents
Page
1.
Introduction
1
2.
From the Chairman
2
3.
Vision, Success Criteria & High Level Objectives
3
4.
Local Targets and Priorities
4
5.
Work Plan Summary
5
6.
Resources
6
7.
Summary of agreed budget estimate expenditure 2015 - 15
7
8.
NIFCA Structure and Membership
8-9
9.
Staffing and Service Standards
10 - 13
10.
Governance Summary
14
11.
Training and Development Plan
15 - 16
12.
Strategic Planning
17
Annex I
Risk Assessment Matrix
18 – 28
(ii)
Glossary of Terms used in this Annual Plan or of relevance to IFCA remit
AIFCA
-
Association of IFCAs
B&NNC EMS
-
Berwickshire & North Northumberland Coast European Marine Site
CEFAS
-
The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science
CFP
-
Common Fisheries Policy
COG
-
Chief Officers Group
DEFRA
-
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs
EA
-
Environment Agency
EMS
-
European Marine Site(s)
HLO
-
High Level Objectives
IFCO
-
Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Officer
JWA
-
Joint Working Arrangement (locally with MMO, EA and NE)
MaCAA
-
Marine & Coastal Access Act 2009
MCA
-
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
MMO
-
Marine Management Organisation
MPA
-
Marine Protected Areas
MCZ
-
Marine Conservation Zones
MoU
-
Memorandum of Understanding
MSC
-
Marine Stewardship Council
MSFD
-
Marine Strategy Framework Directive
NAREC
-
National Renewable Energy Centre
NE
-
Natural England
NEBOSH
-
National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health
NIFCA
-
Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority
NSFC
-
Northumberland Sea Fisheries Committee
P&C
-
Promotion & Communication (Plan)
RIB
-
Rigid Inflatable Boat
RSA
-
Recreational Sea Angling
SAC
-
Special Area Conservation
SAGB
-
Shellfish Association of Great Britain
SEA
-
Strategic Environmental Assessment
SLA
-
Service Level Agreement
SPA
-
Special Protected Area
TAG
-
Technical Advisory Group
WASSP
-
Wide Angle/Sonar Seafloor Profiler
(iii)
Annual Plan 2015 - 2016
1. Introduction
This Annual Plan outlines what we aim to do in 2015–16 and demonstrates how
Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (NIFCA) will build upon our
work in the 4 years since inception on 1 April 2011.
To achieve our goals we now have in place the necessary workforce, member base,
procedures, premises, technology and equipment (with our new Patrol Vessel “St. Aidan”
due for delivery in April 2015). Over the last 4 years we have also built strong relationships
with stakeholders and partner agencies and continually enhanced communication and
promotion of our work through meetings, discussion, our website, as well as beginning in
2015 the use of social and other media.
Our key specific work areas in 2015 – 16 will be as follows:Continuing with the EMS Revised Approach particularly in respect of amber risks – bait
digging, potting, birds and gill netting;
The proposed Coquet to St. Mary’s Marine Conservation Zone which is undergoing
consultation at the time of publication of this plan;
Proportionate enforcement of our byelaws and other fisheries and marine environmental
regulation, with the Authority undertaking a continuous programme of education of
stakeholders to minimise the risk of infringements;
Survey work and other data gathering processes to further enhance the basis of
management in the district.
Implementing as soon as possible and with a minimum of inconvenience to stakeholders the
new NIFCA byelaw package in place of the Authority’s legacy byelaws. Details will continue
to be posted on the Authority website.
The main challenge which it is envisaged we will face is in respect of limitations upon our
resources but we will continue with a policy of careful and prudent financial management
and with the continuation of the funding from Defra which is included in the precepted sums
to the Authority from Northumberland and North Tyneside Council being seen as crucial to
the continued level of fulfilment of this Authority’s vision and remit, as it has been fulfilled to
date.
Finally, thank you again for the continued interest in our work shown by a wide range of
stakeholders and we will continue to listen and engage with you as much as possible in the
months ahead, which we are looking forward to.
1
2. From the IFCA Chair Robert Arckless
The year ahead will be significant in many ways and as I
write this there are a number of uncertainties.
A new Parliament will be in place and a new Government
established.
Depending on the result of the General Election there could
be changes, although in terms of IFCAs there is a longestablished cross Party consensus.
The new Government will consider spending priorities. We
know that the “new burdens” funding is committed for the
forthcoming year and that is an issue which will be
important to all IFCAs.
In the 2015 financial year
Northumberland IFCA slightly increased the precept levied
on our constituent authorities by 2% after a five year budget
freeze. We are very conscious of the continuing pressure on
Robert Arckless public sector expenditure and continue to monitor our
budget closely.
We are grateful for the continued support of Northumberland County Council and North Tyneside
Council. We will continue to work with them and to establish links with our local MPs and MEPs.
I am very proud that Northumberland IFCA will shortly take delivery of our new patrol vessel, the Saint
Aidan. This has been funded entirely from our own resources because of the foresight of the previous
Sea Fisheries Committee continued by IFCA in establishing a patrol vessel fund. We believe the new
patrol vessel will allow us to undertake our duties more effectively and in a much more cost effective
manner.
Our staff team is well established and encompasses a range of talent and experience.
Northumberland IFCA has good relationships with our stakeholders and our officers play a full part in
supporting the work of a number of community groups.
Work is progressing well on the legacy by laws and the Strategic Environmental Assessment and the
close links between Northumberland IFCA and Newcastle University continue.
The Authority membership continues to give me strong support. My thanks to them for all they do,
and especially my Vice Chair, Les Weller.
I also want to thank the Chief Executive, Mike Hardy, the Fisheries Officers and staff team. Their
commitment and enthusiasm make all the aspirations outlined in our annual plan a reality.
Robert Arckless.
2
3. Vision, Success Criteria and
High Level Objectives
The National IFCA Vision:“IFCAs will lead, champion and manage a sustainable marine environment and in-shore
fisheries, by successfully securing the right balance between social, environmental and
economic benefits to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry”.
To achieve the IFCA vision, seven success criterion have been established, each with a series
of performance indicators, as outlined below. The objectives of the IFCAs officers is clearly
linked back to these high-level objectives as is shown below:
IFCA vision
↓
IFCA success criteria
↓
High-level IFCA objectives
↓
IFCA working level objectives
(annual plans including local targets and priorities)
↓
Staff work objectives (annual reviews also known as
appraisals)
Regarding the success criteria which are current as we enter 2015-16, the reader is referred
to the NIFCA Annual Plan for 2014 – 15 (page 3 and Annex 1 pages 22 – 38). However, the
Success Criterion together with the High Level Objectives, Outcomes and Performance
Indicators thereunder are currently undergoing national review which it is anticipated will be
completed in the Spring of 2015 and details of which will be fully publicised by this Authority,
including upon our website. Pending changes which will arise from such review, the
Authority and its officers will continue to work in accordance with the fundamental principles
of the existing criteria and together with members to embrace those principles.
IFCOs Sally Stewart-Moore (left) and Justin Cooke (right) with
Newcastle University students on the Blyth Mussel Survey
3
4. Local targets and priorities
Northumberland IFCA in 2015 – 2016
The reader is referred to our Annual Plan for 2014–15 pages 4-6 and Annex II and the local
targets and priorities are now as follows:The targets and priorities in our 2014–15 Annual Plan numbers 2, 4, 6, 7, 8 (with Mussel
Surveys also now taking in place in the River Blyth, as well as continued expansion of the
Authority’s fish survey work including in Druridge Bay) 9, 11, 12, 13 and 16 remain
unchanged.
Regarding the other numbered local targets and priorities from 2014-15 Annual Plan:1.
The work carried out under current and future success criteria, high level objectives
and performance indicators will continue to be kept under review.
3.
The Authority Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) has now been
implemented and will be used as a management tool by the Authority.
5.
Regarding Marine Conservation Zones, apart from properly monitoring the
Aln Estuary MCZ, the Authority will undertake all necessary preparation for the
proposed Coquet to St. Mary’s MCZ and have regard to other proposed MCZ
adjoining the district.
1.
Regarding byelaws, the Authority made its 6 new Legacy Byelaws at its quarterly
meeting on 28 October 2014 and following statutory consultation the byelaws were
forwarded to the MMO in February 2015 with a view, ultimately, to ministerial
signature and the byelaws becoming law which is therefore anticipated in 2015 and
the Authority will regulate accordingly under its byelaw package (as well as other
relevant regulatory provision) and including the two red risk byelaws, namely the one
prohibiting use of mobile fishing gear in the English section of the B&NNCEMS and
the other protecting seagrass in the same area.
15.
Amble 2020/Lobster Hatchery - the Authority will continue to assist with this project,
in particular through the Working Group which has been set up and the sponsorship
of a PhD student who is continuing her work on the feasibility of the hatchery.
4
5. Work Plan Summary 2014 - 2015
The Work Plan Summary in Section 5 of the Annual Plan 2014–2015 will be continued in
broad summary for 2015–2016, with any necessary adaptations. The Authority’s Risk based
Enforcement Policy will also continue to be followed, with intelligence also crucial to
operations and enforcement activities. The introduction of Annual Reviews of Performance
of all staff, following a comprehensive review and analysis led by Messrs Drummond HR, of
Contracts, Performance Review and Reward will also lead to benefits both for individual
officers and staff regarding career progression and for the Authority in terms of enhancement
of performance by individuals and the Authority team.
Mark Southerton, Les Weller, Ian Thomas and Eric Balsdon, Mussel Survey at Blyth,
5
6. Resources
Premises
The position is unchanged from what is stated in the 2014-15 Annual Plan.
Vessels and Vehicle
In February 2015 the Authority sold its 21m patrol vessel St. Oswald for £168,080 and is due
to take delivery in April 2015 of a replacement vessel St. Aidan, a 16m GRP catamaran.
The Authority’s vessel and vehicle capability remains otherwise as stated in the 2014–15
Annual Plan. St. Aidan has been purchased entirely from the Authority’s own saved
resources (the Patrol Vessel (PV) Fund) and we will aim to build up another PV Fund for the
future after St. Aidan.
Financial - Estimated Reserves
at the end of 2014-15 including the St. Oswald
sale proceeds are in the sum of £322,000.
Budget
The Authority has increased precepts by 2% for 2015-16, after having a fixed budget for our
first four years. This modest increase enables some further contingency in the light of
prevailing long term financial uncertainty, particularly regarding funding from Defra (“new
burdens”) which is paid via the Authority’s total precept figures, but not guaranteed beyond
2015-16. The Authority’s budget forecast on the following page will be kept under review
and reported on as referred to in the Resources section of last year’s Annual Plan.
Value For Money
The principles and policies as referred to in last year’s Annual Plan have and will
continue to be enshrined in our modus operandi.
Officers assisting with litter collection
6
Northumberland IFCA
Summary of agreed budget estimate expenditure 2015-2016
Estimate
2015-16
Expenditure
Employee expenses
Patrol vessel expenses
Land rover/RIB expenses
Establishment expenses
Legal expenses
Conference training and expenses
Lobster V-Notching
543,800
53,000
6,500
111,300
5,000
36,000
10,000
Sub Total
765,600
Contingencies
Annual contribution to patrol vessel replacement fund
10,000
42,000
Total Expenditure
817,600
Income
Other income
Northumberland County Council precept
North Tyneside Council precept
29,200
657,581
131,169
Total Income
817,950
Surplus/(deficit)
350
7
7.
NORTHUMBERLAND IFCA STRUCTURE OF ORGANISATION
The Northumberland Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority The Members: 6 from Northumberland County Council,
1 from North Tyneside Council,
11 MMO Appointees pending appointment of a new member
plus 1 Statutory Member from each of the Environment Agency, Natural England
and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO)
The Chief Executive Officer
reporting to the Authority
Michael H Hardy
Chief Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Officer (Chief IFCO)
Alastair B Browne
Deputy Chief IFCO
Mark Southerton (Operational)
Relief Skipper
IFCO/Mate
Darren Graham
IFCO/Coxswain/Crew
Michael Docherty
Deputy Chief IFCO
Jon Green (Environmental)
IFCO/Engineer
Justin Cooke
IFCO/Coxswain/Crew and
Environmental IFCO
Sally Stewart-Moore
Environmental/IFCO
Emma McLoughney
IFCO/Coxswain/Crew
(Part-Time)
Eric Balsdon
Administrative Officer
(post to be filled in 2015-16
Part-Time Secretary
Debbie Carr
Part-Time Secretary
Carole Blair
8
Part-Time Finance Officer
Julian Sutton
Part-Time Assistance Finance Officer
Pat Temperley
8. NIFCA Membership
(As listed below at the time of going to press in March 2015)
The Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority is funded by 2
constituent authorities: Northumberland County Council (NCC) and North Tyneside
Metropolitan Borough Council (NTMBC) with 6 members from NCC and 1 member from
NTMBC on the Authority. To maximise democratic accountability the majority of the 7 local
authority members voting on the Authority Budget must approve its passing. In addition
there are up to 11 MMO appointed members and 1 representative (staff member) from each
of the government agencies, Environment Agency (EA), Natural England (NE) and Marine
Management Organisation (MMO). Please see membership table below:
Name
Affiliation
Councillor G R Arckless (Chairman)
NCC
L Weller (Vice Chairman)
MMO appointee
M Bould
MMO appointee
Councillor B Burdis
NTMBC
Councillor Mrs J Fearon
NCC
Ms Lynne Grimshaw
NCC
Mrs C Hedley
MMO appointee
D Herriott
MMO appointee
M Kitching
MMO appointee
N Polunin
MMO appointee
Mr P Rippon
EA representative
A Ritchie
MMO appointee
N Robinson
MMO representative
Dr C Scott
NE representative
Councillor Mrs E Simpson
NCC
J Stephenson
MMO appointee
Ian Thomas
MMO appointee
D Thompson
MMO appointee
Councillor R J D Watkin
NCC
Councillor J Woodman
NCC
9
9. NIFCA
Staffing and Service Standards
Service Description
NIFCA has a stable and dedicated workforce with a high level of expertise and commitment
in all aspects of the work being undertaken by NIFCA. The workforce forms an excellent
team for delivery of all objectives on a daily, weekly and annual basis. The office staff and
IFCO officers will be open and transparent with stakeholders.
In the office:
Chief Executive
Michael H. Hardy (Solicitor, non-practising)
Head of service with responsibility for the overall
management of the organisation and strategic
planning including in respect of the roles of staff and
officers, with ultimate responsibility in addition for:
Budget control, policy development, public relations,
data protection and freedom of information, legal
management, human resources issues including staff
Performance Reviews, preparation of reports and
membership liaison.
Administrative Officer
It is planned to fill this role in 2015-16.
Secretary
Deborah Carr (part-time)
Management of office filing systems, maintaining
paper records, audio typing, general office duties
and administrative support.
Secretary
Carole Blair (part-time)
Audio typing, general office duties.
Finance Officer
Julian Sutton (part-time)
Budget control and maintaining financial records
Assistant Finance Officer
Patricia Temperley (part-time)
Budget control and maintaining financial records
10
Inshore Fisheries and Conservation
Officers (“IFCOs”)
Chief Inshore Fisheries &
Conservation Officer
Deputy Chief Inshore Fisheries
& Conservation Officer
(Operations)
Deputy Chief Inshore Fisheries
& Conservation Officer
(Environmental)
Inshore Fisheries &
Conservation Officer /Engineer
Inshore Fisheries &
Conservation Officer
Inshore Fisheries &
Conservation Officer
Inshore Fisheries &
Conservation Officer
(Environmental)
Inshore Fisheries &
Conservation Officer
Inshore Fisheries &
Conservation Officer (parttime)
Alastair Browne
Line Manager for IFCOs. Skipper of patrol vessel, liaison
with CEO. Managing all aspects of Authority’s vessel
operations and shore enforcement. IFCO Performance
Reviews, timesheets/expenses, monthly rotas. Liaise
with other organisations as applicable. Attend COG and
other meetings. Prepare and present prosecution
reports. Byelaw review.
Mark Southerton
Enforcement duties. Relief skipper patrol vessel.
Deputise for Chief Officer when necessary.
Heading Ground Truthing/Surveying.
Health & Safety Officer (vessels and office).
IFCO Performance Reviews.
Managing all safety equipment for officers, vessels and
office. Coxswain of Authority RIBs.
Jonathan Green
Head of Authority Conservation work including marine
and environmental issues, research programmes and
the Authority work in relation to EMS, MCZs, SEA and
Byelaw Reviews. Also liaison with Authority IFCO
(Environmental) and the Chief Executive and other
IFCOs as necessary. IFCO Performance Reviews. Plus
where required Enforcement Officer duties including
Coxswain of Authority RIBs.
Justin Cooke
Engineer on board patrol vessel.
Maintenance of Authority’s vessels and equipment.
Enforcement Officer duties. Coxswain of Authority RIBs.
Darren Graham
Mate on patrol vessel.
Enforcement officer duties.
Coxswain of Authority RIBs.
Michael Docherty
Enforcement officer duties.
Shellfish data. Sea angling liaison officer. Boarding
Officer.
Emma McLoughney
Authority Environmental and Conservation work in
conjunction with and reporting to the Deputy Chief IFCO
(Environmental) and particularly in relation to the EMS
Revised Approach (Amber Risks), MCZs, SEA, liaison
with Newcastle University and other partner
organisations and Enforcement Officer duties where
required.
Sally Stewart-Moore
Enforcement officer duties. Survey duties. Sea angling
liaison officer. Boarding officer and works with
environmental officers.
Eric Balsdon
Enforcement officers duties.
Coxswain of Authority’s RIBs.
11
Service Standards
The Authority Officers are all based at the Authority office. They attend at the office for
meetings and administrative support. The Authority’s Land Rover and shore-based RIB are
stored at the Authority office and patrols can commence from the office. The move to new
premises last year as detailed elsewhere in this report has removed the need except in
exceptional circumstances for officers to work from home.
The other staff are also based at the Authority office. All are mobile when necessary to
attend meetings and to other duties relating to their role.
The main overall roles of the Authority will continue to be enforcement of fisheries and
conservation legislation at sea and ashore in the Authority district; collecting data through
research and survey work (practical and desk based) to inform management and with a
continuation of projects particularly with Newcastle University and supported by Natural
England; management and maintenance of physical resources; administration including
finance, data protection, record keeping and preparation for meetings; providing advice
(official consultations, general fisheries and environmental enquiries and ad hoc stakeholder
enquiries); and acting as intermediary and facilitator.
The objectives of NIFCA entail providing a professional, effective, efficient and equitable
enforcement regime in the NIFCA district; ensuring the best possible fishery and
conservation management practices and research techniques are utilised; continuing to
maintain and monitor standards of performance; providing stakeholders and the general
public with information and/or data and improving access thereto; and meeting with
stakeholders to provide information and receive feedback.
Service Delivery Priorities
By a proactive enforcement regime throughout the district a high quality of patrols and
enforcement will continue to be achieved. There will also be reports to the Authority on a
quarterly and annual basis setting out the activities of the Authority measured against the
Performance Indicators in particular. Technical and research documentation will be
produced to a high standard and made publicly available both in paper and electronic form.
Research opportunities will be practically identified and developed with appropriate levels of
reaction to consultation and similar documents. There will also be involvement in other
activities that could have an impact on the marine environment in the district.
The IFCA will also continue to collect data from permit returns in accordance with Byelaw
provision. In addition the IFCA will seek external funding support wherever possible for
relevant projects.
As part of NIFCA’s customer care, the following standards have been set so that customers
know what to expect when dealing with the Authority and staff.
12
Employees will:





Identify themselves when dealing with anyone
Answer telephone calls within 5 rings whenever possible.
Answer letters and emails or send a holding communication within 5 working days of
receipt.
Deal with complaints in a prompt considerate manner.
Be courteous and endeavour to be helpful at all times.
Provide information on services and facilities.
Since the inception of NIFCA the above service standards have been adhered to very
satisfactorily by NIFCA and its officers/staff. It is intended to maintain and wherever possible
enhance that high level of performance in 2015 -2016.
Aln Estuary Survey
13
10.
Governance Summary
NIFCA is governed by the system of quarterly meetings of the membership held at the
Authority Office at 8 Ennerdale Road, Blyth or at Northumberland County Council, County
Hall in Morpeth on the fourth Tuesday every January, April (which is the Authority annual
meeting), July and October. Governance is regulated by the Northumberland Inshore
Fisheries Conservation Order 2010, the NIFCA Constitution, Standing Orders and Code of
Conduct for Members, all of which documents are kept under review and updated when
required. The Standing Orders provide a procedure to arrange extraordinary meetings if
required.
NIFCA has two standing committees of members which meet before each quarterly meeting
and report to the main NIFCA Committee – the Watch Committee deals particularly with
issues relating to the patrol vessel, enforcement and staff matters and the Finance
Committee particularly considers the Authority budget and is reported to by the Finance
Officer and Chief Executive.
Subcommittees are established when necessary to look at specific issues and report to the
main committee for example in relation to byelaw review.
The above system and governance documentation is kept under review by the Chief
Executive in consultation with the members. Other views from officers and staff and
stakeholders will also be taken into account. Any necessary amendments or updating
arising from the above will be made if required.
Current NIFCA Subcommittees
Scientific and Technical Subcommittee
Management Subcommittee
Prosecution Subcommittee
Promotion and Communications Subcommittee
Premises Subcommittee
Patrol Boat Subcommittee (re new patrol vessel procurement)
CFP Reform Subcommittee
Defra and other consultations subcommittee
Inshore Shellfishery Subcommittee
Holy Island Mussel Survey
14
11. Training and Development Plan
NIFCA continues its commitment to the training and development of staff and members to
maximise their knowledge and ability to carry out their roles fully and effectively within the
Authority with due regard to resources limitations and therefore aiming for the best standard
of training and development in the most cost effective way possible. Training and
development continues to be reviewed and developed to address all areas of relevance to
the Authority’s operation on an on-going basis. Issues in the Authority plan can be
converted over time into an individual personal working objective. By thus investing in the
NIFCA staff their value to the organisation and the respect in which they are held as
individuals by NIFCA and stakeholders is demonstrated and maintained. The system of staff
appraisals established by NSFC and continued and developed by NIFCA Performance
Review is also designed so that individual staff input including concerns and suggestions is
maximised and aspirations addressed and met where possible.
Training will be through a variety of media, including but not limited to formal classroom
teaching and including where applicable learning, mentoring and role play, as well as
experience on the job.
The attached schedule at page 16 of this document confirms the training plan for officers
and staff in 2015–2016, with provision also to be made for members. Particularly, this will
ensure fulfilment of the statutory safety courses and enforcement training which the officers
are required to undertake. In addition, the Chief Executive is a member of the national cross
agency (MMO, Environment Agency and IFCAs) training group which has been looking at a
range of initiatives for future training for IFCOs and other sea fisheries and environment
enforcement officers, leading in particular to the specialist training for IFCOs which was
rolled out by the MMO from March 2012 and planned Accreditation through Skills for Justice
for IFCOs and Marine Enforcement Officers.
The national IFCAs TAG, as well as providing important support to all IFCAs in respect of
their environmental and scientific work, is also an excellent forum for the on-going
development of attending IFCA officers.
Administrative staff will also continue to undertake such courses as are necessary both to
maintain the standards of their work and for personal development and this process will be
kept under review particularly by the Chief Executive and Administrative Officer.
Officer and staff training requirements will be agreed and kept under review with every
member of staff during annual Peformance Reviews.
Members
New Authority Members are offered induction training by the Chief Executive and an IFCO.
Further training will continue to be offered to members in 2015 – 2016 particularly by way of
on-going events and presentations to be arranged and also by way of guidance from the
Authority office by way of reports and information and at Authority meetings. As part of the
above, members will be briefed as much as possible on subjects which will or may impact
upon or affect their core interest.
As the work of the Authority continues to develop, options for training will be brought to the
members’ attention wherever possible and members will continue to be encouraged to
participate in the same and suggest any training sessions which they think will be useful.
15
NORTHUMBERLAND INSHORE FISHERIES AND
CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
ANNUAL TRAINING SCHEDULE 2015-2016
List of Proposed Courses/Training
Name of Type of Course/Training
Attendance
Investigative Law MMO, Preston
IFCO D Graham
Basic First Aid, South Tyneside College
(MCA approved)
IFCO S Stewart-Moore
IFCA Enforcement and Training Course, Torquay
2 x IFCOs (Refresher)
WASSP Multi Beam Training, Furuno, (in-house)
IFCOs
Continuation of various in-house training and learning
requirements including information technology
updates.
IFCOs/Office Staff
Various IFCA Training Courses, reference Survey
Equipment and Data Gathering
IFCOs
Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Diploma
in Accounting, levels 3 & 4
Finance Officer Julian Sutton
Sage 50 Accounts on line training
Finance Officers
Other Notes
The need for additional courses (including for members) will be monitored, arranged where
necessary and within budget and reported on an on-going basis to meetings of the Authority.
16
2. Strategic Planning
The section on Strategic Planning in our 2014 – 2015 Annual Plan set a template for
Strategic Planning by NIFCA. The success of this Authority’s forward planning and strategic
approach is reflected in the Report to Parliament which has been delivered by DEFRA
shortly before publication of this Annual Plan and NIFCA will aim to build on the success of
our first four years and plan in 2015 – 2016 as far ahead as possible for the effective future
working of NIFCA. Key to that is recognition of the working environment in which we operate
and over the last four years we have adapted to that environment and developed the
structures and staff in particular to enable the Authority to both plan ahead and deal with
contingencies which may arise. The long term goals of the Authority remain as enshrined in
the NIFCA Vision and Success Criteria and the means are in place to achieve those goals in
the short, medium and long term.
RNLI Training
17
Annex 1
Up-to-date Risk Assessment Matrix
18
RISK ASSESSMENT MATRIX FOR NORTHUMBERLAND INSHORE FISHERIES AND CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
ANNEX III TO NIFCA ANNUAL PLAN
Objectives:
To manage and regulate inshore sea fisheries in Northumberland and other duties particularly as laid down in the
Marine & Coastal Access Act 2009 including:

Enforcement of byelaws and other legislation.
08/01/2008 and 18/03/2008 to establish this Matrix
First Reviewed 14/11/2008
Reviewed
25/6/2009
Reviewed
18/02/2010

Supply fishing permits to approximately 115 fishermen, tags for pots to them and tags to approximately 650 hobby fishermen.
Reviewed
03/08/2010


Provision of advice to permit and wider community
And as referred to in the IFCA Vision, Success Criteria and other objectives in the NIFCA Annual Plans and also referred to in
the NIFCA Annual Plan and Report
Reviewed
Reviewed
Reviewed
Reviewed
Reviewed
Reviewed
Reviewed
22/02/2011
28/09/2011
05/07/2012
27/03/2013
08/11/2013
16/12/2014
16/12/2014
Next Review : May 2015
Risk scored as current net risk i.e. with controls at current status and effectiveness; as they are now
The Matrix is reported on to each Authority Finance and main Committee meeting
Health and Safety Officer, Health and Safety Policy,
risk assessments of all work, continually reviewed.
Lone working policy in place for IFCOs and office
staff, with an office rota introduced to try and avoid
lone working in the office. Incidence of lone working
significantly reduced due to Health & Safety Policy
and rota and levels of office staffing. The Health
and Safety Policy is kept up to date. Training is
given to new recruits. A visitors book is also kept in
office reception recording all site visitors and staff
attendance at and departure from the office.
The Health & Safety Officer has carried out a review
of 8 Ennerdale Road since the move here last
September – camera system now operational, as is
door keypad system. Premises security including re:
front gate will continue to be kept under review.
Monitoring Process
Score
Inadequate
management of
health and safety
of operational
and office staff
leading to an
incident.
Impact
Controls
Likelihood
Ref
Risk
Responsibility
Further
Action
Required
Date
of
Last
Review
Date
of
Next
Review
2015
1
1
3
7
Monthly record of checks including
fire safety and a fire drill has taken
place for all officers and staff.
Records of regular testing and
inspection also take place. There is
a quarterly Health & Safety Report
to the Authority and the position is
minuted.
Quarterly
report
to
Authority and meeting minutes.
19
M. Southerton
J. Cooke
Fire drill to take
place annually plus
Manual Handling,
First Aid and Fire
Training to be
arranged for office
staff. Crane in
garage area also to
be isolated from
the fuse board or
permanently
disconnected. A
health and safety
manual for the
Authority’s new
patrol vessel St.
Aidan will also be
prepared before
the vessel
becomes
operational.
16/12/2014
May
Impact
Likelihood
Date
of
Next
Review
2a
An
aggrieved
member of the
public becomes
abusive leading
to an incident in
the field.
As above plus: building up relationships, using
negotiating and influencing skills.
Enforcement
officers equipped with personal protective clothing
and equipment. Vast majority of time work in pairs.
Lone working risk assessed and policy and
procedures in place. Incident procedure to withdraw
and report with potential recourse being prosecution
for obstruction. Veecam has also been purchased
and may be used to gather evidence inter alia of
incidents. On the rare occasion that lone working is
required, officer will ring in at the beginning and end
of the day to notify the Chief Officer or designated
duty officers or member of staff that they have
finished.
1
2
3
Reporting to Chief Executive and
meeting of the Authority.
Chief
Executive/Chief
IFCO
No.
16/12/2014
May
2b
An
aggrieved
member of the
public becomes
abusive leading
to an incident –
with an office
based member
of staff.
Accusation of an
officer or staff
member of
dishonesty or
fraud leading to
loss of reputation
of the Authority.
As risk 1 and 2a above plus: building up
relationships, using negotiating and influencing
skills. The Authority’s premises at 8 Ennerdale Road
also now have CCTV and electronic access
providing extra security and the above mentioned
visitors’ book also keeps a record of who has been
at the office in case of any difficulty.
1
2
3
Reporting to Chief Executive and
the Committee.
Chief Executive.
No.
16/12/2014
May
Authority governance and code of conduct.
Financial Regulations and Procedures handbook,
including system requiring Officer and Chief
Executive approval before any payments are made
and an order approval process requiring quotes.
Receipts issued for all donations; register kept for
transparency. Disciplinary process. Installation of on
line banking has increased security. An office safe
has also now been securely installed, access to
which is controlled and limited. The Chief Executive
and Chief IFCO also both have Authority
Barclaycards – Chief Officer checks all usage with
Chief Executive and memos expenditure and all
expenditure is reported as soon as possible to the
Authority Finance Officer.
1
2
3
Public Audit. Quarterly reporting to
the Authority by Admin and Finance
Officers, to Chief Executive more
frequently if necessary. One or both
Finance Officers also meet with the
Chief Executive at least once a
week and Assistant Finance Officer
gives monthly budget reports to the
Chief Executive.
Chief Executive.
Sage 50 is being
installed and that
will continue to
improve accuracy
and reduce risk of
errors in financial
management.
16/12/2014
May
Score
Responsibility
Date
of
Last
Review
Controls
Ref
Monitoring Process
Further
Action
Required
Risk
2015
3
20
The Authority precepts upon Northumberland
County Council (83.37%) and North Tyneside
Metropolitan Borough Council (16.63%). The
Authority membership includes councillors with
these authorities. Should funding be reduced, the
Authority would seek to cut back in certain areas
and renegotiate upon the level of service provided.
Tight financial controls. Financial Regulations are
implemented. Monthly budget report by Finance
Officers to Chief Executive as well as meeting at
least once a week between Finance Officer(s) and
Chief Executive. Under the Marine and Coastal
Access Act, additional funding has been awarded by
DEFRA for New Burdens which is guaranteed to
continue until the end of 2015-16. In addition the
Authority has an Assistant Finance Officer dealing
particularly with budget management and providing
cover and support for the Finance Officer and
particularly reporting to the Chief Executive upon
budget monitoring and planning.
Score
Inadequate
funding leading
to overspending
or reduced level
of service
Impact
Controls
Likelihood
Ref
4
Risk
Monitoring Process
Responsibility
Further
Action
Required
2
3
10
Finance Officers reporting to Chief
Executive, and to the quarterly
meeting of the Authority.
J. Sutton
Continuing to work
with NCC to
strengthen
procedures under
the Audit Action
Plan and ensuring
fulfilment by NCC
of the Service
Level Agreement
with them.
1
3
7
Rota meetings with IFCOs. Close
working with Finance Officer and
Admin staff. Also see Gap Analysis
document which is kept under
review.
Regarding monitoring
process a “Certificate of
Fitness” and return to work interview
upon an IFCO or staff member
returning to work after a period of
absence will be sought if necessary
and appropriate to ensure fitness to
return to work.
Chief Executive.
Keep under review
business continuity
planning
for
significant loss of
staff during such as
a
pandemic
flu
outbreak.
Regular
staff meetings to be
increased if possible
to at least quarterly.
Date
of
Last
Review
16/12/2014
Date
of
Next
Review
2015
May
Base costs and overheads have increased but
rigorous planning of the budget continues and there
is compliance with Audit recommendations. In
addition the Authority’s new patrol vessel St. Aidan
(replacing St. Oswald) will bring increased efficiency
and savings in terms of running costs and
maintenance as well as possibly increasing
chartering opportunities and thereby income
because of increased capability.
5
Loss of staff
(e.g. through
long term
sickness or
turnover) leading
to a loss of skills,
knowledge and
experience and
reduced capacity
to deliver the
service. Impact
assessed based
upon losing 2
staff.
Workload would be distributed between remaining
staff. Recruitment of additional resource e.g. parttime/temporary staff.
Notice period required is
between 6 weeks and 3 months for IFCOs and office
staff. Training of existing staff to do tasks of others.
Training of new recruits. Financial Regulations
developed for finance. There would be liaison with
other Authorities to get staff from them on a
temporary or permanent basis. In recent years the
Authority has also increased its compliment of
officers to 8 full time and 1 part time IFCO plus part
time administration and finance officer support.
Reconfiguration of Authority operation would take
place if funding reduced.
21
16/12/2014
May
6b
Loss of building
e.g. through fire
leading to inability
to deliver service.
Employment of engineer 0.5FTE; if engineer
absent for any length of time the Chief IFCO and
Deputy Chief IFCO (Operations) could cover the
situation for a reasonable period. Maintenance
and inspection regime. PV and RIB insurance in
place - replacement policy in the event of fire or
sinking, duplicate documents are held on land or
replacements can be obtained. PC back-up
procedures in place and back-up for data on pv at
office.
Mutual assistance could be sought
through eg North Eastern or North West IFCA
and other organisations.
Lead-in time for
replacement new RIB is 2-3 months, but perhaps
leasing during interim period. The Authority’s
existing RIB capability also means there is a
supplementary vessel if the patrol boat is out of
action. The Authority is also now due to complete
early in 2015 the purchase of a Catamaran Patrol
Vessel following a rigorous procurement process
led by Northumberland County Council and with a
detailed legal contract in place with the boat
builder including insurance to give every possible
assurance of delivery of the vessel as per the
contract.
IT back-up provided by NCC and website back-up
by Urban River.
Temporary accommodation
would be sought initially from NCC. Current files
are held in steel cabinets. Purchase of a fire proof
cabinet for the most important documents is being
considered and a small safe has been purchased
for any cash which has to be held on the
premises plus keys and other small but important
items. Deeds held in strong cupboard. Blue Book
(electronic copy) and other records held on the
boat or electronically. Insurance. Keep under
review NCC ability to provide accommodation if
required.
Date
of
Next
Review
Score
Loss of boat, RIBs,
vehicles, plant and
equipment leading
to inability to
enforce byelaws
and deliver service.
Date
of
Last
Review
Impact
6a
Further
Action
Required
Likelihood
Controls
Ref
Risk
1
2
3
Reporting
to
Patrol
Vessel
Subcommittee, Watch Committee
and main committee meetings of
the Authority. Regarding new patrol
vessel the Chief IFCO in particular
is in regular contact with the
boatyard
and
together
with
members
of
the
Authority
Procurement Team is paying visits
to the boat yard to monitor
progress.
Chief Executive.
No.
16/12/2014
May
1
2
3
Reporting to Chief Executive.
Admin Officer
Re: Fireproof filing
cabinet
16/12/2014
May
Monitoring Process
Responsibility
2015
Fire awareness for staff is built into the Authority
Health & Safety Policy and planning.
22
8
DEFRA or MMO
objects to proposed
new byelaw leading
to
management
difficulties
experienced by the
Authority.
Professional update will be maintained through
membership of the Association of IFCAs and
networking through other IFCAs and “blue book”
updates, DEFRA communications. Admin staff
scanning the internet on a regular basis. Internal
communication framework. The Authority has
also completed reviewing its legacy byelaws with
a view to implementing a replacement new
byelaw package during 2015. The Authority will
also continue to regulate as required under the
European Marine Site Revised Approach to
Fisheries Management.
Full consultation
including with the MMO is undertaken and also
with Natural England, particularly re Habitats
Regulations and other stakeholders. IFCAs can
also make emergency byelaws.
In developing byelaw proposals, legal expertise is
sought where necessary (in addition CE who is a
solicitor (now non-practicing) with many years’
experience) and reference is also made to the
Defra Guidance to IFCAs on making byelaws.
There is also on-going liaison with the MMO.
IFCAs can also make emergency byelaws. The
enhanced IFCA byelaw-making process including
specific provision for consultation and Impact
Assessments should reduce the risk of Defra or
MMO objection to a proposed new byelaw.
Date
of
Next
Review
Score
Failure to regulate
in accordance with
legislation.
Date
of
Last
Review
Impact
7
Further
Action
Required
Likelihood
Controls
Ref
Risk
1
3
7
Rota meetings. Close working with
Admin staff.
Staff meetings.
Quarterly reporting to Committee of
the Authority.
Chief Executive.
Continue the process
of implementing new
byelaws and updates
to be given to IFCOs
and staff when
required on regular
development.
16/12/2014
May
2
3
10
All relevant staff and the Authority.
Chief Officer and
Deputy Chief
Officers and
Chief Executive.
No.
16/12/2014
May
Monitoring Process
Responsibility
2015
23
10
Inadequate or
inappropriate governance
leading to inappropriate
decision-making and loss
of reputation.
The process of transition from Sea
Fisheries Committee to IFCA was
successfully accomplished some time ago.
IFCA duties and remit are now fulfilled by
the Authority. NIFCA was consulted upon
preparation of the Parliamentary Report by
Defra on IFCAs first 4 years and the report
is awaited. Throughout NIFCAs first 4
years, MOUs with partner agencies have
been followed and in particular the Authority
has implemented and worked with partner
agencies locally upon a Joint Working
Arrangement. This has ensured compliance
with the provisions of the Marine & Coastal
Access Act 2009 as these affect IFCAs.
The IFCA also has High Level Objectives,
Outcomes and Performance Indicators to
follow, and that has been done as much as
possible bearing in mind resource
limitations and extra responsibilities which
have been given to IFCAs. As well as
guidance to IFCAs from Defra, the IFCA
has also established its Annual Plan and
Annual Report which are followed in
managing its role. The Authority has also
undertaken during 2014-15 a review of
Employment
Contracts,
Performance
Review and Reward (ECPR&R) which
increases robustness of the Authority’s
delivery capability whilst being fair to
officers and staff.
Members are appointed by NCC, NTC and
MMO.
Also reference to Authority
Constitution,
Standing
Orders
and
Members' Code of Conduct. Guidance is
also given to IFCOs who have a code of
conduct and other staff as appropriate as to
what should be done to avoid inappropriate
decisions and loss of reputation. Control is
also maintained by transparency of
operation and an appropriate chain of
command to ensure the correct approval for
actions is obtained where required.
Date
of
Next
Review
Score
Failure to adequately
manage the continuation
of the Northumberland
IFCA and all new duties
under the implementation
of the Marine and
Coastal Access Act 2009.
There will be a
parliamentary report on
all IFCAs after 4 years
i.e. during 2014-15.
Date
of
Last
Review
Impact
9
Further
Action
Required
Likelihood
Controls
Ref
Risk
1
3
7
This is built into the High Level
Objectives,
Outcomes
and
Performance Indicators for the IFCA
and in the Annual Plan. Progress
and attainment of objectives should
be monitored continuously and
reported upon quarterly to the
meeting of the Authority and in the
Authority Annual Report.
Chief Executive
Adhere to monitoring
process as detailed
for this risk and
maintain all
necessary training
for Officers and Staff
and act upon
guidance from the
membership and
Defra and
Association of IFCAs
and continue with
implementation of
ECPR&R.
16/12/2014
May
1
3
7
Annual Audit. Quarterly Authority
meetings and Extraordinary General
meetings if required. IFCOs report to
Chief IFCO and Chief Executive. All
emails
and
other
written
communication by IFCOs and other
staff are also checked as necessary
by senior officers. A secure system
of emailing and data storage is also
maintained by the Authority.
Authority Chair
and Chief
Executive.
No
16/12/2014
May
Monitoring Process
Responsibility
2015
24
1
Score
Fisheries in the District
impacted by the
activities of
developers/non-fishing
industry. Insufficient
time to fully consider
environmental impact
assessments for inshore
development.
Financial skills and experience of finance
officers. Members' scrutiny of financial
reports provide a quarterly challenge.
Monthly (or more frequently if required)
budget
meetings
between
Finance
Officer(s)
and
Chief
Executive.
Contingency within annual budget. The
Authority budget is prepared in detail with
member input, with quarterly forecasts and
detailed breakdowns of all heads of
expenditure within the quarterly and
annual accounts which are prepared by
the Finance Officer working with the Chief
Executive to keep spending within budget
(and see 4 above re. Assistant Finance
Officer).
Preparation for annual audit
begins in the autumn with the Audit
Section at Northumberland County Council
before the Audit itself the following
spring/early summer. The Authority also
has reserves to cover any major
contingencies which may arise.
Consultations responded to by the
Authority
after
due
consideration
particularly by Deputy Chief IFCO
(Environmental). Liaison with consulting
agencies. Developer meetings attended
by Authority representatives. Database
holding information on current and
historical fishing activities within the district
has been modernised and updated.
Development proposals will also be
scrutinised
by
other
agencies.
Developments will require consent. The
Authority has a Risk Enforcement Register
for the District which is kept under review.
The Chief and Deputy Chief IFCOs
(Operations) and IFCO McLoughney
have also attended an in-depth pollution
training course and IFCOs also sit on the
local Standing Environmental Group.
Impact
12
Inadequate budgetary
control leading to
overspending.
Controls
Likelihood
Ref
11
Risk
1
3
7
3
Monitoring Process
Further
Action
Required
Responsibility
Date
of
Last
Review
Date
of
Next
Review
Annual audit and quarterly meetings
plus regular liaison between Finance
Officers and Chief Executive plus
regular liaison with internal audit
and members where necessary.
Julian Sutton
Finance
Officer,
Assistant
Finance
Officer and Chief
Executive continue
to meet to plan for
audit and budget
controls and consult
the Northumberland
County
Council
Internal Audit Team.
16/12/2014
2015
May
7
Review takes place of notices
received of proposed developments
and there is a set process for
response to consultation, Chief
Executive liaising with Deputy Chief
Officer (Environmental) in particular
and with Authority members where
applicable. Also obtaining further
information where applicable from
the developer and other agencies
such as MMO.
Chief Executive
and Deputy
Chief Officer
(Environmental)
None
16/12/2014
May
25
14
Degradation of
environmentally
sensitive areas
due to fishing
activity.
The officers meet regularly with fishermen in the
district particularly when on patrol. Meetings will also
continue with fishermen, recreational sea anglers and
other stakeholders in the district. Information is
received through the membership on any areas of
concern which there may be and will be acted on as
appropriate. The website has also been improved to
increase outreach.
Subcommittees will consider
specific issues. Regular liaison with MMO, EA and
NE through the local Joint Working Arrangement
(JWA) which is now in place. There is also regular
liaison with Newcastle University School of Marine
Science and the Tweed Commission. Regular press
releases and other appropriate liaison with the media.
A fully comprehensive stakeholder list is also in place
together with the Authority Promotion and
Communications Plan upon which there is assistance
from Richard Simpson Associates. The Authority
also now produces a periodic newsletter and has
posted on the North East Sea Angler Forum website
where necessary, plus information sheets where
required e.g. for the EMS Revised Approach and has
also put up notices in the district and produced
minimum size cards.
Authority byelaws and particularly permit issue and
pot limitation through byelaw 15. Also projects in
conjunction particularly with Newcastle University and
Natural England to enhance knowledge of the fishery
and also continuous checks by officers of fishing
activity leading to effective enforcement and adaptive
co-management approach to fishing. The Authority
also now has the power to make emergency byelaws
and is also engaging fully with the Defra Revised
Approach to Management of fisheries in European
Marine Sites (Ambers and Greens following Red
Risks). The Authority also has a Risk Enforcement
Register in place for the district and this is kept under
review by the Deputy Chief IFCO (Environmental).
Monitor and Control Surveillance System (MCSS)
and the Automatic Information System (AIS) are also
used as monitoring tools in respect of this Risk. Also
increased joint operations with the MMO and other
agencies.
Responsibility
Score
Failure to fully
engage
with
stakeholders
Monitoring Process
Impact
13
Likelihood
Controls
Ref
Risk
Further
Action
Required
Date
of
Last
Review
Date
of
Next
Review
2015
1
3
7
By meetings and reporting to
members and assistance of PR
Adviser.
Chief Executive
Reviewing whether
to use social media.
16/12/2014
May
1
4
11
Rota meetings with IFCOs and
reports to the Chief Executive.
Quarterly reports by IFCOs to
Authority
meetings.
Ground
truthing and seabed mapping is
also
ongoing,
increasing
knowledge and data.
Chief Executive
and Deputy Chief
Officer
(Environmental)
Implementation of
new byelaws will
continue to be
sought.
16/12/2014
May
26
1
4
Monitoring Process
Score
Impact
Controls
Likelihood
Ref
Risk
Responsibility
Further
Action
Required
Date
of
Last
Review
Date
of
Next
Review
2015
15
Stocks collapse
16
Breakdown
in
relations
with
stakeholders
including Marine
Management
Organisation,
Environment
Agency
and
Natural England.
V-notching programme for lobsters and annual
mussel survey. Projects to ascertain greater details
of stocks and in particular the Authority is now well
underway with its Lobster Stock Assessment Project
2014-16. The Authority is also participating in the
MSC “Project Inshore” and has continued with its
Strategic Environmental Assessment which has
reached the Environmental Report stage in the
district. Account is also being taken of the CEFAS
assessment of crab and lobster stocks programme
and the Authority is also a member of the IFCA
Technical Advisory Group (TAG). Surveys at sea to
assess fish stocks. Monitoring of landings. New
byelaws will also take account of all of this and
provide controls. Effective enforcement. Consultation
with the industry and all stakeholders plus partner
agencies. Permit returns and data thus gathered also
reduces this risk (and also the Authority database).
Also Risk Enforcement Register for the district.
MoUs and regular liaison with all partner
organisations and stakeholders and properly
responding to any queries or complaints and
reporting as appropriate to membership. In addition
Joint Working arrangements locally with MMO, EA
and NE. In addition the Authority has MoUs with the
Tweed Commission and Newcastle University. Also
the Authority’s compliments, comments and
complaints system is kept under review. Complaints
are virtually unknown/at the lowest possible level.
1
4
11
Rota meetings with officers and
reports to the Chief Executive.
Quarterly reports by officers to
Authority meetings.
Chief Executive,
Chief IFCO and
Deputy Chief
IFCOs
Strategic
Environmental
Assessment in the
district and other
actions under
Controls. Further fish
and shellfish stock
surveys.
16/12/2014
May
11
Stakeholders can contact the
Authority office and also attend
meetings. A record will be kept of
any complaints or other comments
requiring action and the Authority
office in particular will remain
proactive to foresee as much as
possible likely areas which need to
be dealt with to prevent any
breakdown in relations. The
Authority has also commenced a
programme of stakeholder surveys
beginning in the summer of 2014
with shellfish permit holders to
which a good response was
received as recorded on the
Authority website.
Chief Executive
Social media is
being considered as
a means of
communication.
16/12/2014
May
27
18
Information technology failure
leading to loss of data and
affecting the Authority’s ability
to function.
Close liaison with Defra and other IFCAs
including
in
respect
of
MPAs
Implementation
Group,
Technical
Advisory Group, Chief Officers Group
and Association of IFCAs ensures
knowledge
and
awareness
is
maintained.
Strong
communication
between officers particularly Deputy
Chief
(Environmental)
Officer,
Environmental IFCO, Chief IFCO and
Chief Executive and with Authority
members and also the Deputy Chief
(Environmental)
Officer
and
Environmental IFCO attending all
necessary meetings particularly now on
a regular basis with the Authority’s
Natural England member and also
including EMS Implementation Office
meetings. Also full liaison with Natural
England nationally and the Marine
Management Organisation.
EMS
Implementation Officer is an Authority
member. Regular monitoring of areas
covered by European Marine Site, the
MCZ in the district at Aln Estuary and
other proposed MCZ areas. See also the
EMS Revised Approach to Fisheries
Management,
with
the
Authority
purchasing new equipment with funding
from Defra to ensure compliance in the
district with the Revised Approach.
Service
Level
Agreement
with
Northumberland County Council who
provide back up for data and internet
security. Paper records of documents
are also kept securely and can be
referred to as well as what can be
accessed through computers. Access
through
computers.
New
hard
drives/multiple locations.
Score
Failure to properly fulfil
responsibility including role in
respect of European Marine
Site and prospective Marine
Conservation Zones and bait
digging.
Impact
17
Likelihood
Controls
Ref
Risk
Monitoring Process
Responsibility
Further
Action
Required
Date
of
Last
Review
Date
of
Next
Review
2015
1
4
11
Regular discussions
between the Authority
Environmental Team and
Chief Executive/Chief
IFCO and also particularly
with Natural
England/Authority member
and EMS Implementation
Officer/Authority member
and reporting upon
meetings to the Authority.
Chief Executive and
Deputy Chief Officer
(Environmental)
Hold stakeholder
meetings re: MPAs.
Keep development
of strategy re. bait
digging under
review, continue
with all necessary
survey work .
16/12/2014
May
1
4
11
Through the SLA – this
includes the services of an
IT
Manager
for
the
Authority
from
Northumberland
County
Council.
IT is also
monitored every working
day by officers and staff.
Chief Executive and
Chief IFCO
Data Backup Policy
to be developed.
16/12/2014
May
DETAILS OF GUIDANCE FOR QUANTIFICATION OF RISKS AND THE SCORING GRID IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST FROM AUTHORITY OFFICE
28
Going fishing!