News

Giant factory ships ‘emptying the fishing grounds’ off Milford Haven

Published

5 years ago

November 4, 2019

FOUR huge fishing vessels, each over 120m long, are working off the coast of Milford Haven at the present time, the Herald has learned.

Local fishermen say they have been tracking the vessels, which can stay at sea for many weeks, for the last few days.

One local trawlerman, who did not want to be named said that he felt that UK waters were being deliberately targeted before Britain leaves the EU.

The ‘Willem van der Zwan’ at 142m is one of the largest fishing vessels of the Dutch fleet is working alongside three other EU registered factory ships including the ‘Afrika’ and the ‘Carolien’.

At many times larger than the usual trawlers working in the Irish Sea, the four large vessels are amongst 19 fishing boats in the area. One of them is British registered, the rest from other European nations.

A spokesman for the Blue Planet Society said: “The capacity of these trawlers is equivalent to dozens of small-scale fishing vessels, and sustainable small-scale fisheries cannot compete with industrial supertrawlers.
“Supertrawlers are effectively floating factories and able to stay at sea for considerable periods of time. ‘Willem van der Zwan’ can process 250 tonnes of fish per day whilst at sea.
“Local, smaller fishing boats have to return to port to offload the fish prior to processing.”

Fishing in the Irish Sea is governed by the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), a set of rules laid down by the European Commission.
A Commission official said last month responding to a similar incident in the English Channel: “The Commission is aware of concerns among NGOs concerning the activity of large trawlers (in UK waters).
“All vessels operating in EU waters, large and small, have to abide by the rules and this is controlled by the Member States’ inspection and control services.
“It is a priority that all Union vessels comply with the legislation in force.
“Therefore, if there is a suspicion that vessels infringe rules then the Commission would like to be informed and receive concrete facts.
“Moreover, fisheries inspection authorities in the Member States also need to be informed about this.”

The management of a large Dutch fishing vessel told The Herald: “We have our own factory with us. So, the large size of the vessel is not related to the catching power of the vessel but to the on-board processing and storage facilities. The fish remains its freshness and the efficient processing procedure results in an affordable consumer product.”

The Willem van der Zwan website says: “Our goal is simple: we should fish in such a way that fish stocks and their natural habitats remain healthy and productive. This is the only way in which we can continue to meet the demand of present and future generations. ‘We want to preserve the capital and to catch the interest.’

“To fulfil this mission, we will continue to contribute to scientific research. Scientific research is essential for setting quotas, implementing and maintaining a sound management system for various fish stocks and for further innovations in selective catch methods.

“A logical consequence of this sustainability policy is the certification of fisheries according to the MSC principles. Moreover, our fish is characterized by a high Omega-3 content, a relatively very low CO-2 footprint and a low price.”
A source in the fishing community told this newspaper that Willem van der Zwan is currently at Pembroke Dock. “I’ve been told that her fishing gear was caught around the prop” we were told.

SCH302 Factory ship [File picture]

Fishing company Parlevliet van der Plas includes the Margiris on a list of pelagic trawlers on its website.
The website says: “Pelagic fish shoals are located with the help of echo-sounding equipment. From the echogram it is possible to estimate the depth and the size of the shoal.
“The net is towed behind the ship just below the water surface or further down the water column, but does not reach the seabed.
“Pelagic fishing gear is constantly undergoing further improvements to ensure a responsible fishery through better selectivity.
“Special measures and aids – such as large mesh sizes in the front part of the net – are being developed to prevent the catch of un-wanted species or undersized juvenile fish.”

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

8 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

15 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”