NFA introduces new tracking system for vessels
The National Fisheries Authority is currently rolling out the introduction of a new satellite-based vessel monitoring system for small scale fisheries in the country.
The solar mobile-satellite vessel monitoring system is known as the New Era Maritime Observation or NEMO tracking system.
A team from NFA is currently working with fisheries authorities and line agencies in West New Britain to roll out the NEMO system in the province.
The NFA officials introduced the tracking system to WNB in a formal presentation to Division of Fisheries and Marine Resources executive manager, Newell Sinaigawi, divisional heads, fisheries officers and police personnel.
The new tracking system aims to encourage sustainable small-scale fisheries through proper monitoring and regulating of fishing practices.
The roll out will see the distribution of NEMO devices to small-scale fishermen and fishing groups in the province.
The devices are solar powered and are connected to a network of satellites which NFA is accessing through its partnership with French fishing vessel monitoring systems experts, Collecte Localisation Satellites or CLS.
The NEMO device is mobile, can be easily mounted on small fishing boats and vessels and provides global tracking and connectivity either through mobile cellular networks or satellites.
The main advantage of the system is that it allows the NFA to track real time activities of registered small scale fishing operations.
Through this monitoring mechanism, the NFA can monitor movements of small fishing vessels and ensure that catch data is collected to ensure standards are maintained.
The NEMO device also has an emergency feature which when triggered can alert the authorities when vessels are in distress.
The NFA team is expected to distribute over 70 devices in the province over the next two weeks with similar deployment units to be done in Western, Gulf, East New Britain, Milne Bay, the National Capital District, Central, Manus and New Ireland.