The UK Marine Management Organisation is now accepting applications for replacement Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) terminals for English fishing vessels over 15m.
Fishing vessels of 15m and over have been operating a satellite-based vessel monitoring system to comply with EU Regulations for some years now, but that requirement is now extended to vessels of 12m overall length and over by EU regulations.
The introduction of VMS to these smaller vessels is almost complete and the MMO says that it is now in a position to accept grant aid applications for replacement terminals for vessels over 15m.
Grant aid up to a maximum of £2,000 may be available for the new device. Once the MMO receives application forms and clarifies these meet the eligibility criteria it will contact the supplier, AST, who will in turn arrange for a time and date for installation. After AST installs the device it will then invoice the MMO for payment.
Grant aid is time-limited and early application is strongly recommended. In order to apply for grant aid, completed applications must be with the MMO by 20 February 2015.
