The Ministry of Public Works and Environment reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative ocean management following a high-level meeting recently between the Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon. Jache Adams, JP, MP, and representatives of the Fishermen's Association of Bermuda (FAB).
The meeting, held at the Ministry's headquarters, included Allan Bean, FAB President, and Jamie Walsh, FAB Secretary.
Minister Adams was joined by Permanent Secretary Kirk Outerbridge and Dr. Tammy Warren, Senior Marine Resources Officer from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The Minister described the meeting as a “meaningful step forward” in honouring the Government’s public promise to enhance consultation with the fishing community.
That pledge followed the Government’s decision earlier this year to pause the implementation of the proposed Marine Spatial Plan (MSP), a key part of the broader Blue Prosperity Plan (BPP).
“We are serious about striking the right balance between environmental protection and economic sustainability," said Minister Adams. "Our fishermen are not just stakeholders. They are stewards of the sea, and their experience is essential in shaping fair, workable marine policy.”
During the meeting, both sides acknowledged their shared interest in a healthy ocean environment. The FAB agreed with many of the Blue Prosperity Plan’s long-term goals while raising concerns about specific elements, particularly the proposed designation of 20 per cent of Bermuda’s waters as fully protected marine areas, prohibiting all fishing activity.
Discussions focused on alternative fisheries management tools, as well as the need to improve marine enforcement and strengthen the collection of catch data — a recurring concern for both FAB and DENR.
Minister Adams noted, “We understand that no conservation strategy will succeed without strong enforcement and quality data. Our aim is to reach a solution with the fishermen on these issues, before designating any additional protected areas"