Fishing - Quota Management Group (QMG) trial: evaluation
The trial met its objectives and has improved the Scottish Government’s understanding of quota management and its use. The QMGs met their stated objectives. The QMGs appear to be a suitable alternative model of fish quota management (in comparison to POs).
1. Purpose of the evaluation
The purpose of this report is to provide evidence and recommendations to policy officials in the Scottish Government Marine Directorate on the Quota Management Group (QMG) trial. This evaluation aimed to establish what impact QMGs have on the fisheries regulation landscape. The project aimed:
1. To understand if QMGs have met their stated objectives (see 2.3. Key Characteristics of QMGs and POs) as set out at the beginning of the trial.
2. To understand if QMGs are a suitable alternative management model in fisheries, comparing against the current alternatives of (i) Producer Organisations (POs) or (ii) being in the non-sector (vessels managed directly by the fishing administration rather than POs).
3. To understand if there are any unexpected impacts from QMGs affecting fishing vessels, other fishing groups, fishing markets, or any other stakeholders.
This evaluation was undertaken primarily through interviews with relevant stakeholders supported by a literature review, a review of the QMGs’ and POs’ annual reports, and a review of fisheries management data where relevant. As the management of QMGs cannot be assessed against a baseline, the evaluation sought views on wider quota management system and how POs operate. Further details of the methodology can be found in Annex A - Methodology.
Utilising the evidence gathered through this research, the recommendations on the possible outcomes of the trial are presented at the end of this report.