Exploring how fishermen respond to the challenges facing the fishing industry: A study of diversification and multiple-job holding in the English Channel fishery

摘要: Fishermen in the UK face a range of administrative, socioeconomic and environmental challenges that affect financial performance, ultimate viability their businesses. These are particularly salient within ‘inshore sector’; those vessels less than ten metres length which account for over-three quarters domestic fleet. While diversification fishing activity is well-established response to such challenges, opportunity exploit alternative grounds stocks increasingly constrained by management controls. An develop strategies not subject restrictions on effort output. include diversifying into activities maintain link with (i.e. fisheries diversification), seeking complementary employment outside industry multiple-job holding). Despite potential contribution sustainability individual businesses communities, this remains an area has received limited academic attention date. This thesis seeks make original knowledge examining how fishermen English Channel respond upon performance; exploring practices, motivations constraints engaging holding. The research design adopted study comprises mixed method approach formed three distinct phases: inventory existing activities; survey stakeholders; qualitative phase fishermen. The results reveal historically well established among currently practised forms. type found be factors, including geographical location; market demand; characteristics Additionally, number key were identified may deter from adopting strategy. relative importance these was examined fisherman non-fishing stakeholders using Analytic Hierarchy Process. revealed respondents attributed similar levels economic social constraints, lack opportunities; but considered information relatively unimportant. Through analysis data, conceptual framework developed understand main faced they adopt response. demonstrates fishermen, impact types shaped interaction ‘contexts’. relate attributes fisherman; business; external environment operate. model indicates performance follow hierarchical structure: most likely adapting prior considering strategy diversification. In contrast, holding widely nor regarded as viable To end, recommendation made support both improving profitability businesses, developing sources income where viable.