THE SHELLFISH ASSOCIATION OF GREAT BRITAIN

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE MOLLUSC COMMITTEETO BE HELD ON MONDAY 8 th FEBRUARY 2010 AT 10.45 a.m.

AT FISHMONGERS’ HALL, LONDON BRIDGE, LONDON

Present: Mr. J. Wilson - Chairman

Dr. C. Bannister - Consultant ScientistMr. N. Bloxham - Seafare Products Ltd.Ms. G. Davies - Environment AgencyMr. R. Emans - Maldon Oysters & Seafood LLPMr. R. Haward - The Company ShedMr. J. Holmyard - Offshore Shellfish Ltd.Mrs. S. Horsfall - SeafishMr. T. Hugh-Jones - Rossmore OystersDr. L. Jack - Food Standards AgencyMr. S. Kershaw - CefasDr. I. Laing - CefasMr. S. McLeod - Viviers (UK) Ltd.Mr. M. Mander - Eastern Sea Fisheries

Joint Committee Ms. C. Mason - DefraMrs. G. Mills - Stanswood Bay OystermenMr. A. Rattley - Kershaws Frozen FoodsMr. T. Robbins - Devon Sea Fisheries CommitteeMr. W. Speirs - Muckairn MusselsMr. M. Whittles - DefraMr. J. Wiggins - Kent & Essex Sea

Fisheries Committee

Plus

Dr. T. Pickerell - DirectorMr. D. Jarrad - Assistant DirectorMs. S. Peplowski - SIDS Project ManagerMrs. L. Andrews - Office Manager

The Chairman welcomed everyone to the Meeting.

The Director said due to the Fishmongers’ Company commitments, we have been asked to hold our Committee Meetings on Monday’s or Friday’s for at least one year. Whilst this is not ideal, we will give feedback to the Clerk at the end of the year.

1. APOLOGIES

Dr. J. AndrewsDr. J. BrownMr. I. CarrierDr. P. Hunt

Mr. K. MouldMr. D. PalmerMr. J. SimmondsMs. H. StevensMr. K. ThompsonMr. P. Wilson

2. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING After one amendment on page 24 which should have read ‘port dredging’ and not ‘dredging’ to the Minutes of the previous Meeting held on 29th September 2009, they were agreed and signed.

3. MATTERS ARISING- CFP Response (paper 1) – The Director said the SAGB response to the Green Paper consultation had been circulated. This was the first step in the long process of reforming the Common Fisheries Policy and the consultation ended on 31st December 2009. SAGB concentrated on a number of areas: 1. Getting more stock assessments of non quota species put in place and getting management plans for these species;

2. The Green Paper talks about a differentiated management regime for small scale fisheries; this opens the possibility of talking about the 0-6 and 6-12 mile issue. SAGB are saying that the 0-12 should come under national control and supporting the idea of a differentiated inshore management regime linked to cultivation.

At the moment, the Commission are going through everyone’s responses.

The Director confirmed that he hoped to get a speaker from the Commission to talk about some of the responses at the SAGB Conference in May, focusing on Europe on the shellfish side. There will be another consultation coming out later this year, which will be the White Paper based on the consultation responses. The Director said it is a good opportunity for SAGB to push for what we are seeking.

Dr. Bannister congratulated the Director on the SAGB response and said it was very good.

The Director said paragraph 45 of the Defra response to the CFP Green Paper is very interesting and worth looking at. It is the strongest Defra have ever been on the 0-12 mile issue. Other organisations are believed to be talking about a similar position with national management of this area.

Dr. Bannister said paragraph16 is also very instructive that the Minister has gone on record on his presentation to the Council of Ministers in favour of sustainability in related issues.

The Chairman said that summaries of all responses are published on the Commission website.

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- Supermarkets and Grade B. factsheet update – The Director said at the last Mollusc Committee meeting he informed the Committee about a European Fisheries Fund bid SAGB put in to develop a factsheet aimed at the large buyers of shellfish in the retail chain and food service sector, who have policies of only buying Class A grade shellfish. The aim was to develop a factsheet with the assistance of Cefas and FSA to point out that shellfish from a Class B in the UK with depuration are a similar risk to Class A. SAGB put in the bid in the third week of November and were told we would find out after eight weeks but as yet, we have still not heard from the MFA.

- Gastropod exclusion from testing – Mr. Jarrad said about 18 months ago Jim Partridge (Monteum Shellfish) was requested by Local Authority to have movement documents for his whelks. Gastropods at that time were included in the classification process. SAGB engaged with the Food Standards Agency and it was one of the first things the Classification Working Group looked at.

Dr. Jack said currently, the FSA have a number of proposals going through on hygiene at the Commission which will affect shellfish fisheries products, including the exclusion of gastropods from classification requirements. FSA are discussing proposals with stakeholders. Dr. Jack said if the Commission do not take on board the comments about the end product standards and how that can be applied practically in the UK, the FSA will look for practical ways of implementing that into the UK and try and get some guidance out on that.

Mr. Jarrad said the frustration in the industry at the moment is the irregularity of what industry is required to do. Mr. Jarrad said he was at a meeting last week on the South Coast and was given a live shellfish registration document issued by Eastbourne Borough Council identifying precise locations of harvesting of whelks and the Local Authority were insisting all harvesters use it. However, the neighbouring councils are not doing anything at all.

Dr. Jack said once the proposals are adopted FSA would write to all local authorities.

Mr. Speirs asked if end products standards are the same for gastropods as for oysters and mussels?Mr. Jarrad said, strictly speaking they come under the same as mussels and oysters.

Dr. Jack said FSA will look again at the regulations.

- Native oyster tasting guide – Ms. Peplowski said following from last year’s oyster tasting guide and its popularity, the SAGB are planning to do new one, this time incorporating native oysters. It is planned to have a new tasting session at Billingsgate Seafood Training School on the 10th March 2010, and anyone wanting to enter their oysters to be included in the tasting session and a chance to feature in the new leaflet should contact the office for more details.

- Capt. Philip Gibbon – The Chairman said that Philip Gibbon passed away recently and a memorial service is being held on 24 th April at Stoke Gabriel Church, Devon – If anyone wished to attend they should liaise with the SAGB office.

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- Gangmaster’s Licensing Authority – Mrs. Mills said she had received a copy of the Consultation document response and confirmed that there was little to report..

4. SEVERAL AND REGULATING ORDERS- Revised Guidance from Defra (paper 2) –

Matt Whittles from Defra gave a brief presentation on the recent changes to the Shellfish Act, and how these are being reflected in the accompanying Notes for Guidance.

The Notes for Guidance will provide applicants with clear instructions on how they should apply for a new Shellfish Order, including what is meant by the need to have regard to the powers and duties of the Crown Estate. They also explain how the process of variation/revocation is envisaged working, including who should be consulted, what the Minister should take into consideration when making a decision, and how compensation will work.

In addition to this, the guidance sets out how the other aspects of Shellfish Orders working are seen, for example, encouraging grantees and landowners to enter Memorandums of Understanding, or a similar type of contract. It also includes advice on how section 7(4) of the Shellfish Act can offer protection to Several Orders, and on how grantees and landowners can minimize the damage done by short-term, or small scale developments.

There will also be clear guidance on Appropriate Assessments, including when they are needed and how they should be carried out, though Defra are still working with Natural England on the final wording of this.

The draft Notes for Guidance will be sent to all grantees of Orders for comments over the next couple of weeks.In summary the changes are:

The power of veto from The Crown Estate and the Duchies has been removed. An Order can be varied, or ceased, if the landowner wants to develop the land Defra has introduced a requirement for compensation to be paid if an Order is

varied or revoked

Minor changes:• Grantees of Regulating Orders have been given the power to use money

collected through the Order for regulating as well as improving the fishery; • The maximum fines for a breach of Regulating Order or for depositing

rubbish, or disturbing a shellfish bed in a Several Order in another way has been increased to £50,000

• SFCs are now able to cancel a licence in a Regulating Order if the holder is convicted of a single offence under the Order;

• Defra are now able to decide whether or not to hold a Public Inquiry, when considering an application for a new Order. This means that Public Inquiries will only be called when necessary, saving time and money.

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- Comments from the Committee:Mr. Hugh-Jones asked when the changes were due to come into place.Mr. Whittles said they are in force now.

The Chairman asked if anyone was applying for an order at the moment.Mr. Whittles said he had had some enquiries but no one has put in an application.

Mrs. Mills said there is no mention in the notes about the escalation of lapsed orders.Mr. Whittles said there are a couple that he is aware of who are planning to re-apply. It is up to the potential grantees to get that process moving.

The Chairman asked if there was any route in the legislation that would force the Planning Authorities to take account of the planning application.Mr. Whittles said he did not see why the Planning Authorities should not be considering an application for a shellfish Order. It is in the developer’s interest.

The Director said the draft notes for Guidance had been circulated. Defra drafted them and were commented on by both SAGB and Crown Estates. There were no major issues between SAGB and Crown Estates comments. Natural England has not yet commented on the draft Guidance. Given the choice of a Several and Regulating Order and a development, Natural England would likely prefer the Several and Regulating Order. Once Natural England has commented, it will be circulated again. Mr. Whittles said Crown Estate is keen to have MoU’s with industry.

Mr. Wiggins said, within the Guidance notes, there is a section on the protection of Several Orders and the powers given to Sea Fisheries Committees and IFCAs to enforce the situation. Is there any comment on how this additional work would be funded? Mr. Wiggins said some thought was needed to be given as to how this mechanism will work.

The Chairman said the application of Section 7-4 looks stronger in the Guidance notes than it has done in the past and asked Mr. Whittles if that was correct.Mr. Whittles said there is nothing new in Section 7-4; the onus is on the grantee to do that.

Dr. Bannister said on paper, it seems to be a clear solution, however it will not get 100% endorsement from the industry until it has been ‘tried and tested’ and proven to work in a reasonable timescale. There is still a concern that the guidance notes are not legally binding

Dr. Bannister asked Mr. Whittles what will happen to Orders that have been held up in the pipeline by the Crown Estates position.Mr. Whittles said he was not so keen to have a variation go through and Orders should go through the new process.

The Chairman thanked Mr. Whittle for trying to help the situation.

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This Agenda item was moved

6. CLASSIFICATION WORKING GROUP- Details to come following SAGB/FSA meeting on 20 th Jan – Mr. Jarrad said a brief summary was sent out about the formation of this group. The group is likely to adapt into a stakeholder group on all food safety matters pertaining to the SAGB. This is to be encouraged providing the ‘Classification’ issue is not lost.

Dr. Jack said Classification will be high on the agenda of this group and it is aimed at building a wider bridge. The implementation of the chemical method on algal toxin testing will be coming out in June, also new proposals.

Mr. Speirs said he has been working with FSA Scotland and SEPA. It would be interesting to know what the formal relationship between FSAS and SEPA and that between FSA and EA in England

Dr. Jack said FSA WG is looking to make itself more efficient. The intention is to invite people from FSA Scotland to be on the group as well as Scottish industry. She added that there is a desire to act more on information found in the sanitary surveys.

Mr. Kershaw said in England and Wales the objective of the sanitary surveys is to better target the monitoring points in harvesting areas. As part of that process, the Environment Agency’s Pollution Reduction Plans are reviewed and any additional pollution sources are identified as a result of the survey and noted in that survey and EA are consulted and feed back to the Pollution Reduction Plans.

Mr. Speirs said with the bathing waters situation they can temporarily have their classification suspended rather than lose it. There is no formal mechanism within SEPA to contact shellfish growers in a designated shellfish growing water.

Mr. Emans said he does end product testing for Virus’ and send everything to VeroMara for testing. Mr. Emans said he spoke to David Lees at Cefas, Weymouth who said the tests mean nothing to them as they do not recognise the laboratory, their methodology or results.

Mr.Emans said we cannot depurate norovirus with the standard systems we are allowed to use.

Mr. Haward said there is an open harvesting area near him where the local EHO were carrying out their routine monthly sampling and they found a very high level of e.coli. A week later, he discovered that the local sewage works had not functioned for three days and there had been no notification from the Environment Agency or the Regulatory Body to say that they were testing at that time. This went on for three or four weeks before it was clear again. Mr. Haward said if they had known at the time that there was a problem they could have stopped harvesting.

Mr. Kershaw said the onus is on the discharge permit holder to contact the Environment Agency. The issue is that they are not being regulated effectively and that is something to be taken up with the Regulator.

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Mr. Emans said his contact at the Environment Agency said they self regulate and self test.

Mr. Kershaw suggested that there needs to be improved dialogue between water companies, the EA and Industry. He appreciates that this has not always been happening and should be taken up with the Environment Agency.The Director said this is a key area which SAGB can work on with the Environment Agency. We could have the backing of Cefas and FSA if we want to do a project bid for some kind of notification system. We could put in a funding bid to get something set up.

Mr. Robbins said we should welcome the comments from Dr. Jack that the FSA want to go forward with classification issues. There is a need for the FSA to meet first with the Environment Agency, Cefas and local authorities to see what they want out of the system as well.

Dr. Bannister said the industry has always had a need for an operational management set up of the one described and we need to clarify that we are measuring the same things using reliable methodology albeit for different purposes.

Dr. Jack said there are two issues which need to be separated out:1. Classification system2. Virus’s The Classification Working Group hope to meet at the beginning March.

5. PACIFIC OYSTER- SAGB Response to Non-Native Species Secretariat risk assessment (paper 3) The Director said one of the key issues facing the Pacific oyster is the non-nativeness, or otherwise, of this species. SAGB have recently received an invitation, and is attending, a non-native species awareness workshop in Wales, aiming to raise awareness and improve identification of marine non-native species that are currently impacting biodiversity and eco-systems in Wales.

There are a number of different strands to this.

The non–native secretariat which, is a part of Defra, produced a risk assessment for the pacific oyster. It was based almost fully on the Natural England report on the impacts of the pacific oyster on the ecosystem. SAGB commented heavily on the report, which was very poor and lacking in evidence. Seafish also commented. SAGB have not heard anything on this since last summer. SAGB sent comprehensive comments on the non–native secretariat risk assessment, which has been circulated. There are a number of different issues with the science. We are waiting to hear back from non-native species secretariat to find out what the next steps will be to the risk assessment.

- Government Response to the Consultation on Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (paper 4): Schedule 9 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 identifies species both animal and plant that should have restrictions for the non-native issue. CCW and Natural England both heavily campaigned to get the pacific

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oyster on Schedule 9. SAGB responded to say it should not be on Schedule. 9 and highlighted the fact that it was an economically important species. It is not listed on the recent changes to Schedule 9, however, there is a second part to Schedule 9 coming out later in the year relating to prohibition of sale of species.SAGB have received the ICES species alert for the pacific oyster. It confirms that there are some concerns about the species spreading however it also suggests that there is a need to consider socio-economics of this species in any mitigation strategies.

Mr. Jarrad said the Non-native Secretariat operates three working groups for non-native species for Scotland, England and Wales. SAGB sits on the England one. This is a joint venture between Defra and the non-native secretariat. Mr. Jarrad said he is on the England one primarily for gigas which is the main issue for SAGB. Within the secretariat there is a great deal of sympathy because this is the only species that is commercially significant. The Secretariat Programme Board have instructed the Secretariat to approach Defra and are hoping to have a workshop / oyster summit to get all parties together to find a way forward and get an agenda together to sort the problem out. Currently the Pacific Oyster is out on general release and the huge concern is, if pacific oysters had gone on schedule 9, the general release would be withdrawn and that would suggest that EVERY movement of pacific Oysters would have to be recorded and approved.

Ms. Mason said Defra are very aware of the concerns and the next step will be to look at the risk assessment again based on the comments from SAGB, Seafish and others and look rigorously at the science. Ms. Mason said there will be a further chance to feed in to the report.

Mr. Speirs said under the River Basin Management Plans it would be better for the Government if they did not have that complexity for having oysters as a non-native species.

- NE visit to Richard Haward: Mr. Haward said communication within Natural England does seem to be a major problem between the central office and the local areas. Mr. Haward said Natural England visited his site a few months ago and at the time he said he would like James Marsden to visit and this is now due to go ahead at the end of February. Mr. Haward is keen to show that the area being harvested is increasing. Mr. Jarrad said Richard Benyon will also be there and it is a good opportunity for us to get our message across.

7. ORGANIC STANDARDS- Is there an interest in organic standards in the industry? – Mr. Jarrad said the Soil Association do approve or give organic status to shellfish cultivation. Mr. Jarrad said he believed Poole Harbour is the only farm in England which has been approved for oysters although the Helford is also going through the assessment at moment. They say in their report that they do have support from the trade associations. When Mr. Jarrad has spoken to the regional growers in their meetings they have said they do not really want to engage in organic status.

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Mr. Bloxham said he considers all oysters are organic and could not be anything else. When he enquired to the Soil Association he was horrified with the fees for a small farm had to go though and pay each year. Mr. Bloxham also questioned their authority as to how they actually recognise if oysters are organic or not. He suggested that maybe SAGB should be doing these assessments. Mr. Bloxham said he had not applied for it himself but recognises the need for some sort of marketing badge because the consumer believes that they are buying a quality product if it is marked organic.

Mr. Hugh-Jones said he strongly disagrees with the principle of an ecolabel for organic oysters.

Mr. Emans said he got the Organic Farmers and Growers to certify them in 2003/4/5 and in 2005 the Soil Association picked up that they had got organic status and argued with the Government that oysters are a wild product and cannot be classified as organic so they had to drop the status. Mr. Emans said the WWF Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) is the way forward.

The Director said this issue has been discussed in a wider sense, North Sea cod by all definitions, is organic, but the issue with the North Sea cod and the industry, is the sustainability. The Director said he agreed with Mr. Hugh-Jones that if someone does get a market edge, everyone is going to do it and the only winners will be the Soil Association. SAGB could come up with a definition but if SAGB had to develop a logo it probably would be costing £5-6,000 per year as opposed to the Soil Association’s £1,000 because SAGB would have to hire someone to do it. He suggested that if industry wants an ecolabel it would be better t wait for the ASC because everyone in the UK should be able to achieve it and this will be globally recognised.

8. OYSTER MORTALITY - Update (paper 5) – The Director said the UK government had drawn up a ban on importation of pacific oysters from areas experiencing mortality. The Commission believed that this regulation was illegal after a complaint from the French. However, this resulted in further discussion within the Commission on what needed to be done to stop the spread of mortalities caused by the herpes virus. SANCO then produced a draft paper and circulated it to Member States. SAGB worked with Cefas and Defra, to produce a set of issues and sent it back to the Commission letting them know what our position was. EMPA chose not to take on board our comments. Another revision was produced and went to the SANCO meeting and the French Member State representative refused to endorse it. The Commission did a final draft which went through without any further comment from Member States.

Paper 5e, which had been circulated to members, is the actual Regulation. There will now be restrictions on importations of oysters from diseased areas.

Mr. Speirs said the flaw in the Commission is it does not stop the disease moving only puts on controls once you have got it.

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The Director said the Irish and French were very much against this regulation. The SAGB advice remains the same – Not to import French Oysters for relaying in UK waters.

Mr. Jarrad said the new regulation only lasts until 31st December 2010 presumably because the Commission want to see what happens in France this year. Mr. Jarrad asked if Cefas had funding in place if they had to carry out a lot of testing.

Dr. Laing said that is currently being looked at. Action ItemMr. Robbins said from managing shellfisheries point of view we need a letter of guidance from SAGB or Cefas to hand out to shellfishermen on this subject.

The Chairman asked What if a grower knowingly imports oysters from an area where there is high risk?

Dr. Laing said once it is a Regulation there will be rules to say if they do not have a document it will be an offence.

9. WATER FRAMEWORK DIRECTIVE - Update from Gill Davies (EA)

Shellfish and Water Industry PR09 Improvements• Every five years Ofwat undertakes a price review of the amount of money

that water companies can charge their customers for the supply of water and the treatment of sewage

• It also determines how much companies can invest in improving their services and the environment

• The current price review – PR09 has been finalised – the Environment Agency’s National Environment Programme will drive the investment in improvements to Shellfish Waters under the SWD

• Improvements signed off by OFWAT and the Minister in November ’09• There are 64 improvements associated with 24 Shellfish Waters• 122 Event and Duration Monitors on CSO’s associated with 42 Shellfish

Waters• Investigations associated with 25 Shellfish Waters• In total 64 of the 124 Shellfish Waters in E&W will have either improvements,

investigations or event and duration telemetry installed• This represents a significant investment in improving Shellfish Waters• The improvements programme will start in 2010 and finish in 2015• These improvements are detailed and confirmed in the 2009 PRP’s and cross

referenced into the relevant RBMP’s• Completion of schemes will be tracked

Shellfish Waters as a Revoked Directive• The UK TAG accepted the report on Shellfish Waters as a Revoked Directive

in November 09

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• The recommendations will be presented to the UK Administrations in March/April for adoption

• Recommended retention of microbial standard and change from Faecal Coliforms to E. coli

• Problem with 1nm limit flagged up

• The group that met in 2008 led by SAGB was successful in drawing attention to the implications of the WFD legislation to the Shellfish Industry

• Recommend that to drive changes forward we reconvene that group – possibly after the report has been received by UK Admins

River Basin Plans• These were signed off by the Minister and have been published as the final

plans on:• www.environment-agency.gov.uk/wfd • The plans now move into the implementation phase•

What is in the plans?River Basin District Plans contain summary information – e.g.overall vision developed by Liaison Panels, ambition to achieve good or better for most water bodies by 2027; overall status maps, catchment highlights and key actions by sectors What next?- Implementing the plans at catchment level- Liaison panels extremely valuable, and will continue to work throughout the

plan delivery period. - Implementation requires activity ‘on the ground’, essential that there is

involvement and action from locally based organisations and people. - The Environment Agency will adopt a catchment-based approach to

implementation that is efficient and cost-effective - This will support the liaison panels, complement existing networks and

relationships - Enable better dialogue and more joined up approaches to action.

The Director said SAGB sit on National Liaison Panel and the WFD’s Fishing Group but do not sit on any of the Regional Groups

Ms. Davies said it would be beneficial if one of EA’s River Basin Programme managers attended one of SAGB meetings. Ms Davies said the EA are secure for the next five years of investment. The next planning period is 2014 but EA need to plan in earnest in 2012/13 to make sure investment driver is identified and secured.

The Director thanked Ms. Davies for all her help on this issue.

Action point - Set up another meeting of Water Framework Directive Shellfish Group.

Mr. Speirs asked Ms. Davies what would happen if a designated shellfish water was to be used as an area of special conservation.

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Ms. Davies said she believes the 124 designated shellfish waters are already carried forward into the River Basin Management plans as protected areas.

Mr. Kershaw suggested the two designations can co-exist – the shellfish waters designation offers protection in terms of water quality for growth of the shellfish however when it comes to harvesting in an SPA you may have to take an appropriate assessment because you are disturbing the seabed.

The Director said that cultivation is low impact and it will be very unlikely that there will be restrictions but it depends on the conservation objectives of the site. Marine Conservation Zones are the domestic protected areas and have to take into consideration the socio-economics and would be quite a different landscape for cultivation that already exists there. For the Habitats Directive, it would be unlikely that shellfish cultivation would be restricted because it is so low impact.

Mr. Kershaw said Defra have started a review of the designations. The general objective is to try and maintain a management between classified production areas and shellfish waters. The review should be going to public consultation this year.

The Director said we will be focusing on Government food security issues as well, shellfish aquaculture is one issue which could sustainably address food security concerns.

Mrs. Horsfall said it is good to have support from the EA but there are still a couple of hurdles to go through. It would be nice to have some European Legislation to replace the Shellfish Waters Directive which Seafish are trying to get through and EMPA have suggested a daughter Directive. The problem is any daughter Directive would be under the Water Framework Directive which unfortunately in England and Wales only goes out to 1nm. In Scotland it goes out to 3 nm. Seafish have pointed this out to Defra.

There is another Directive which is the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. This takes over where the Water Framework Directive leaves off, but they do overlap between 0-1nm (3nm in cotland). Marine Strategy Framework Directive covers all sea water, from the beach outwards. The Marine Strategy Directive came in last year and Defra are transposing it into UK law. They held the first stakeholder meeting on the Marine Strategy Framework Directive in December and Seafish raised the point that we need protection for shellfish waters after the repeal in 2013 of the Shellfish Waters Directive. Defra said they would consider it. A second meeting of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive was held two weeks ago and Defra said they had thought about it and as it was requiring protection, the Shellfish Waters Directive had nothing to do with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

10. WWF BIVALVE AQUACULTURE DIALOGUE - Feedback from Global Steering Group meeting, Sydney – Mr. Jarrad said the Global Steering Group for bivalve aquaculture sustainability standards met in Sydney to review the comments made in the first round of consultation on the standards. The biggest topic was the use of the highly toxic chemical Carbaryl which is used on the Pacific west coast by oyster growers to control a burrowing shrimp. They spray the chemicals by aeroplane to kill the shrimp. As a chemical, it is outlawed in the whole

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of Europe. After a lengthy discussion it was decided to exclude all chemicals that are used in bivalve aquaculture. In total there has been an input from 400 individual stakeholders worldwide. The final draft is out now for a two month consultation period. The aim is for the bivalve aquaculture standards to be finalised in May 2010 and incorporated into the Aquaculture Stewardship Council certification programme in the summer of 2010. Mr. Holmyard said he attended a meeting at Reading recently regarding EFF grant applications and they suggested there is funding for about 90% to cover certification

The Director said there is also other funding streams available.

Mr. Speirs asked if they had auditors. The Director replied that there would be third party auditors. (like Moody Marine.) Mr. Speirs asked if there was any way SAGB could become an auditor.The Director said it would be possible but SAGB do not have the resources.

Mr. Jarrad said the primary difference between ASC and MSC is the fact that the ASC’s version is intended to be significantly cheaper than MSC.

Mr. Speirs asked about carbon footprint. The Director said that under the programme you would have to demonstrate you are attempting to reduce it.

Dr. Bannister asked if there will be a set of questions or score guidelines.The Director suggested that this is a matter for ASC. The dialogues are not getting involved in any of the ASC issues, purely the standards.

Mr. Hugh-Jones said they were looking at reducing their carbon footprint and asked if Carbon sequestration would be considered. The Director said that would not be considered, it is more about the operation.

11. SHELLFISH INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY - Ms. Peplowski gave an update on SIDS

Health benefits of seafood project: Ice labels studySP carried out a customer survey at Moxon’s Fishmongers (E. Dulwich) Experienced and helpful staff, clean shop, well run and impressive fish/shellfish display.

The survey highlighted the following:• Customers were also fairly high calibre. They usually come in knowing what

they are going to buy, they are already quite educated about seafood, health etc.

• About 90 people surveyed (around a third of the visitors in the shop that day).• People of all ages, race, gender, families, couples. • Most seem to be ‘foodies’ who like seafood – importance of a GOOD

fishmonger near you.• Less than half noticed the labels• Even fewer actually read them

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But when they did they found information unusual/interesting and useful (generally assume that seafood is healthy)• Most would have liked to have something to take away and read. In shopping

situation people are in a hurry generally• Nearly 50% of shoppers purchased shellfish of some sort: prawns, mussels,

crab, langoustines, scallops, lobster, oysters, cockles, squid, clams, octopus

Next steps: – Awaiting results from survey in other fishmongers.– “No” luck with trying to carry out survey from fish stall at borough

Market.– Difficulty of doing survey in supermarket – however this is probably

where people need to be “educated” most.

The SAGB have produced a Cooked Oyster Recipe Booklet which is due to be released shortly. “Cooking with Oysters” contains 10 mouth-watering and easy-to-follow recipes by chefs such as Brian Turner, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Tom Aikens and Rick Stein to name but a few. The booklet was developed to demonstrate the versatility of oysters when cooked. They can be fried, poached or grilled and work as a starter or main course option. Contact the office for some copies.

- “The nutritional benefits of Shellfish” (full report)This is a fully referenced version by Dr. Andy Woolmer, aimed at nutritionists, health professionals, food authorities, decision makers.

The report is a thorough compilation with examples and references of where the science is at on the following:

• Protein, Fat, Omega-3s• Vitamins and minerals (vitamin B and E, iodine, selenium, zinc, copper, iron)• Shellfish and health (obesity, cardiovascular health, cholesterol, cancer,

arthritis)• Neurological health (behavioural disorders, dyslexia, depression, dementia,

Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases)

- “Shellfish - the natural choice for a healthy diet” (short report)This is a simplified version of ‘The nutritional benefits of Shellfish’ with public friendly terminology and lots of examples and facts such as “Did you know that cockles contain over 23 times the amount of vitamin B-12 than beef?”…

Next steps:Production of species specific factsheets, pulling together information contained in reports, and some additional info on where they are cultivated, fishing methods etc.

Release and promotion of reports with press work (incl. targeting health magazines etc)

Communications- SAGB Website revamp: www.shellfish.org.uk

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- On-going gathering of press & media contacts

Fundraising- EFF proposals have gone in for 2nd series of ‘How to’ videos. Match funding

is being sought by way of sponsorship.- Following up leads on possible funders/partners for future work/events

Coming up- The “under-utilised” market study work. This could mean the trialling of new

product development or value added product for either oyster, shrimps, razor clams, cockles, squid. This might mean a partnership with food sector & retail will be required. For e.g. work with “Prêt a Manger” and try a “shrimp” sandwich?

- Scallop symposium. SAGB, Seafish and Scallop Association are looking to organise this early Summer (July possibly) .The original workshop was set-up to look at what an acceptable footprint for scallop dredging would mean and could look like in practise.

Action point After a discussion of the Committee, it was agreed that SAGB should produce the next recipe booklet on Crabs, and this will be put forward to the crustacean committee meeting on 8th March.

12. REGIONAL MEETINGS - Update – Mr. Jarrad said he had run two meeting recently the first one was in Maldon, 16 people attended and it is cultivation members only. The three main messages from the South East meeting were:Marine protected areas, Marine protected zones and SAC’s

- There is a large amount of uncertainty and misunderstanding about these and the impacts they are going to have .The MPA designated system is not transparent and does not take into account the views of the industry. Industry does not have time to engage with the information process and needs to be represented better

Water QualityThere are some large issues with Water quality regarding classification and norovirus, particularly in the South East and it is hoped that there will be stricter controls through the Water Framework Directive.

GigasTreating gigas as a non-native species is crazy. The Portuguese oysters have been breeding around here for many decades and it is likely the wild settlements in the South East are a Portuguese/ Pacific hybrid. The wild beds are so vast that nothing can be done by the environmentalists to stop anyone.

It was felt the meeting was worthwhile and ideally they would like them up to six monthly.

The second meeting was in Ivybridge in the South West. 16 people attended.

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There was a level of confusion over Marine Protected Areas, the consultations were too complex and a lot of the Industry felt disengaged by the MPA process.

Large amounts of sewage sludge being placed adjacent to water courses for up to 12 months prior to being spread onto the land.

There was a very large mistrust at the meeting of Cefas and FSA with regard to norovirus research and quite a large amount of mistrust of Cefas fish health inspectorate.

It was felt the Oyster tasting leaflet was very good. There is a need for better marketing of oysters and approved advice on training from chefs on preparation of molluscs.

- What other regions would benefit?Action:Jamie – Northern Ireland should be consideredGillian – Southern area?Work with Walter to have an ASSG/SAGB meeting in Scotland

13. MARKETING

Mr. McLeod: – oysters managed good price – good demand and export for everything – dropped off after New Year. Clams good, but problems with perceived sustainability of the bed, however it is a good fishery and it’s spreading.

Mr. Rattley: – cockles actual value down considerably – relatively good this year hopefully very good sales this yearThe Chairman commented about the mortalities in the Dee

Mr. Rattley confirmed there is mortality in the Dee as there is in Morecambe Bay it could be a genetic disorder. A lot of science is being put into it but with no reasonable answer.

Mr. Emans: – last year was a very good year. Exports had helped but the UK market remains a bit flat. Clams and mussels quite good – but hard to get good price – native oysters seem to be OK. This year is harder but there seems to be improved growth.

Mr. Haward & Mr. Bloxham: – much the same

Mr. Hugh-Jones – similar however the sales of native oysters are very quiet.

Mrs. Mills: – not promising in Solent at the moment – only 14-15 tonnes this year

14. DATE OF NEXT MEETING- Friday 23rd April 2010 at 10.45 a.m.

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15. ANY OTHER BUSINESS - Marine Planning Update (paper 6) – The Director gave an update on marine planning and the marine policy statement. The first stage of the new system of marine planning is the development of the Marine Policy Statement (MPS). The MPS will set out in one document their policies for the sustainable development of the UK marine area. It will act as a guide to decision making for the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) and the development of Marine Plans. The second stage of the new marine planning system is the preparation of a series of marine plans. These will translate the policies in the Marine Policy Statement at local level, applying them in more spatial detail to particular parts of the marine area. Both the Marine Policy Statement and marine plans will guide and direct decisions in the marine environment. Marine plans will be a source of information, which developers and other marine industries can use when considering where and how they might carry out activities.

- Next Committee chair – The Director said the Chairman’s term of office ends in September 2010. This will be discussed further at the next meeting. There are two options:1. The Chairman can nominate himself to stay on for a further two years or 2. We can have a new Chair.Action Point – everyone to consider.

- SAGB Conference – The Director said the programme of speakers was almost final and he hopes to get someone from the Commission to talk on the CFP Green Paper. The after dinner speaker will be the SAGB Assistant Director, Mr. David Jarrad

Mr. Robbins said in March 2011 Sea Fisheries Committees will cease to be and will become Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities. As such we will need new Committee members. There is an application process for members to join to become a member of the new authority. Website www.ifcamembers.co.ukApplications close 12th April 2010.

- Evolved SAGB logo – The Director said this was put to Council to ask if the logo could be redesigned and updated to produce a high quality resolution to be used on the new website. This would also be used on all the SAGB stationery. 90% were in favour and was endorsed by Council.

The Chairman said the Consultation for new NATURA 2000 sites finishes on 26 th

February 2010.

The Director thanked everyone for their patience with the transition of sending information by email.

There being no other business the chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 3.40 p.m.

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