11/11/2011
Axis 1 Reopens to Applications
Axis 1 of the Scottish element of the UK EFF programme, which supports measures for adaptation of the fishing fleet including modernisation of fishing vessels, had been temporarily suspended due to the Commissions consideration of a European Court of Auditors report which identified the possibility that grant support was potentially increasing vessels "ability to catch fish", which is contrary to the CFP. Discussions are continuing with the European Commission and in the meantime Marine Scotland has lifted the suspension and will now accept new applications. However, there will be a requirement for all applicants to confirm in writing that the investment is in respect of safety, improving on board working conditions, hygiene, product quality, catch handling, energy efficiency and selectivity and will not increase the vessels ability to catch fish or increase fleet fishing effort in any way. Evidence will also be required to back up this statement which in the main will be confirmation that the individual vessels will not increase capacity or effort on completion of works, or as a direct result, of the project. Consideration will be given to fact that the vessel will not increase tonnage and power however this is not an absolute test. The general grant conditions attached to any EFF award provides for the option to recover grant monies if statements made in support of the application prove to be false.
25/10/2011
Axis 2 in Convergence (Highlands and Islands) Area Reopens
Limited funding is now available under Axis 2 in the Convergence Area and is now open for applications. However, due to the limited funds available all applicants are advised to discuss any investment proposals with the Fisheries Grant Team before developing an application.
02/06/2011
Axis 1 Applications Temporarily Put on Hold
The European Commission have informed all Member States that in response to a report by the European Court of Auditors they have suspended the Axis 1 measures under the European Fisheries Fund (EFF) which provides support towards a range of fleet measures including modernisation work. We are attempting to ascertain the timescale for the suspension and whether we can provide any information which will result in a quick reintroduction of the support mechanism.
Unfortunately, until the Commission provides further information we cannot consider new applications for assistance under Axis 1.
03/11/2010
Applications in Convergence (Highlands and Islands) Area
Due to the large number of good quality projects receiving assistance to date, currently all funding under Axis 2 in the Convergence Area is fully committed and no new applications should be submitted at this time.
There is potential for further funds to become available later, however, it is unclear at this time what level of new resources may be made available and when Marine Scotland will be able to disburse them. Should you wish to pursue an application later this year under Axis 2 in the Convergence Area then please review this website periodically for further news and updates or register your contact details with the Fisheries Grants Team and we will advise you directly should Axis 2 reopen to applications.
Funding under Axis 3 in the Convergence Area is heavily committed and potential applicants are advised to discuss any investment proposals with the Fisheries Grant Team before developing an application.