The Petroleum Licensing (Exploration and Production) (Seaward and Landward Areas) Regulations 2004

Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs/Scottish Executive

41.—(1) The Licensee shall appoint a fisheries liaison officer who shall agree suitable arrangements with the seismic survey and supply vessel owners employed by the Licensee, their masters and with the organisations which represent the local fishing industry in order to promote good working relationships between the various parties. The setting up of the arrangements shall be the responsibility of the Licensee. In particular the Licensee shall—

(a) consult the organisations which represent the local fishing industry about the sea routes to be used by supply vessels;

(b) after informing the Secretary of State of the result of such consultations, agree with him which routes shall be used to minimise interference with fishing activities without thereby unreasonably increasing transit times;

(c) ensure that the agreed routes are used unless safety of navigation or security of cargo considerations dictate otherwise; and

(d) take all reasonable steps to ensure that a responsible person who is fluent in English is a member of the crew of the supply vessel.

(2) The Licensee shall make every effort to locate and remove, without unreasonable delay, any debris resulting from the licensed activities. The Licensee shall consult the relevant fishing organisations on the method of clearance and inform the Secretary of State of the result of such consultation. If as a result of such consultation the Secretary of State determines that the method of clearance of debris should be modified, such modifications shall be observed by the Licensee.

(3) Claims for damage to or loss of gear or loss of fishing time arising from reported debris shall be dealt with promptly by the Licensee.