EMFF & Orkney Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG)

Objectives

The European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) is the fund for the EU’s maritime and fisheries policies for 2014-2020.

The fund

• Helps fishermen in the transition to sustainable future

• Supports sustainable aquaculture

• Supports coastal communities

• Finances projects that create new jobs and improve quality of life along European coasts

Orkney’s Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) will focus the funds avaliable on the following Local Development Strategy priorities:

• The diversification and sustainable management of the local fisheries sector
• Developing new market opportunities and added value for fish products
• Initiatives for diversification in fisheries-based communities

Initiatives which could help achieve these priorities could include:

• Support for enhancement and diversification of fisheries related assets
• Development of fisheries related local research and data collection
• Support for skills development, lifelong learning, and bespoke training opportunities
• Encouragement of diversification within fisheries and aquaculture sectors
• Development of initiatives to identify new markets and enhance supply chain integration

Note, funds are not available to support any increase in the catching effort.