Women in Fishing Study

The Greenwich Maritime Institute and IRIS Consulting are developing proposals to help women with an interest in the commercial fishing industry have their say. The project is not just confined to women directly involved in the industry, though their views are very welcome. It includes the many women who are wives and partners of fishermen.

Since fishing began women have been part of the picture. They were and still are integral to the success of the industry. There are women owners, skippers, crew, traders and processors. Equally important is the role of book keeper, administrator, and the person who deals with the paper work and who runs the home. But, often, none of this is recognised when it comes to decision making.

Formal channels of communication and consultation frequently bypass the women in the industry. This is the opportunity to change that. Defra want to better understand the obstacles faced by women and how women can be given a voice and have access to any training, development and support that they would find helpful.
During February and early March 2010 the project team visited ports around the coast and are keen to hear about the experiences and ideas of women in the fishing industry and a full report submitted to Defra.

This study was reported on in Fishing News. Click here for the full article.