Sufficient safety training is “essential” for those working in the Irish fishing industry, Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) has stressed.
State-managed BIM, Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency, with responsibility for developing the Irish marine fishing and aquaculture industries, offers a range of practical training courses focused on personal safety and survival techniques. It also administers funding of safety equipment.
Since its introduction in 2001, over 8,000 members of the Irish fishing sector have completed BIM basic safety training and have been issued safety cards. Since the BIM Enhanced Safety Training (EST) was launched in 2013 almost 2,000 BIM Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) with integrated Personal Locater Beacons (PLBs) have been issued to owners of Irish registered fishing vessels.
“Most dangerous occupation”
Ian Mannix, head of skills and training at BIM, said: “The fishing industry can be highly rewarding and for many, it’s more than a job, it’s a way of life. However, fishing remains the most dangerous occupation in Ireland. Having appropriate safety training and equipment is essential.”
Training includes the Standards of Training and Certification of Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STWC) - Personal Survival Techniques Certificate.
Grant aid of up to 50% of course fees and learner support costs are available for individuals working in the sector. Financial assistance is also available under the Fleet Safety Scheme.
2,127 fishing vessels are registered in Ireland and over three thousand adults work in fisheries according to the 2018 Business of Seafood report.
