Sealord raises the bar on foreign charter vessels

Sealord raises the bar on foreign charter vessels

New Zealand’s leading fishing company Sealord has today announced a new policy on the management of its foreign charter vessels (FCVs).

From 1 November 2011, all FCVs chartered by Sealord will have at least one New Zealand-based Sealord employee on board for the duration of voyages. These people will monitor labour and fishing standards and ensure they not only comply with New Zealand law but also continue to maintain the higher Sealord standards. Media are also welcome to accompany Sealord-chartered vessels on their fishing expeditions.

Sealord standards are the highest in the industry, with health and safety, labour conditions and fishing practices for all FCVs required to be the same as those on its New Zealand vessels.

The company currently charters three Ukrainian crewed FCVs in New Zealand waters. These are in addition to its own fleet of nine vessels in New Zealand and overseas.

Announcing the new policy, CEO Graham Stuart said that while their use is declining, foreign crewed FCVs are an essential part of Sealord’s business, providing flexibility and specialist capability.

“Through our international marketing network we deal extensively with many of the world’s leading retailers, so Sealord relies on its reputation more than any other local fishing business. It is essential for us to provide an absolute assurance that not only are all New Zealand labour and other laws being complied with, but that our higher Sealord standards are being met in every aspect of our business.

“I am confident this has always been the case on all Sealord vessels, whether they are owned or chartered. However in response to public concerns I am now seeking even more stringent scrutiny.”

“The new observers will be senior Sealord employees and have a direct line to me to report any concerns.”

“Fishing is a tough, rugged business but it must also be a safe and decent business,” Mr Stuart said. “We are perfectly happy to get the facts out there and we welcome the extra scrutiny that has emerged in the media.”

About Sealord Group Ltd

Sealord’s global net spans seven continents. Each year we deliver over $500 million worth of seafood to people in more than 60 countries around the World. We employ more than 1,100 people throughout New Zealand and more than 400 people around the world.

Established in 1961, Sealord is half owned by the Maori people of New Zealand, and half owned by leading Japanese fishing company Nissui.

The people of Sealord consider ourselves guardians of our seas and marine life. We are proactive supporters of New Zealand’s world-class quota management system that ensures Kiwis and people around the world can enjoy New Zealand seafood today safe in the knowledge that it is a sustainable resource that is being protected for future generations.

ENDS

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