Training Information For Would-Be Fishermen

Jim Masson
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Training Information For Would-Be Fishermen

Come on Me Hearties… Whose For The Fishing Then ?

Fishing can be a dangerous but rewarding profession, so if you have ever toyed with the idea but never followed through on it, and you are seeking employment, and want to give it a go, then see below the necessary certification required.

There is a way through for ‘beginners’, and the costs of training can be covered by the boat owners. So there should be no financial barriers really. Just whether you have the stomach for life at sea. And if fishing is not for you, at least you will be qualified to transfer to other areas in the marine sector that are less demanding.

In Northern Ireland, all commercial fishermen working on UK-registered vessels must complete four mandatory basic safety training courses approved by the Seafish Industry Authority and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Below is a pathway to a become a fully trained and certified fisherman. It is a hard life and not for the meek. But has its advantages.

Are you interested in a job working in the fishing industry? Are you physically fit? Check out this article on the pathway to becoming a fisherman. There may be opportunities this summer to start on a crew as the prawn season commences.

Mandatory Safety Courses (New Entrants)

Before working on a fishing vessel, new entrants must complete these four courses:

  • Basic Sea Survival (STCW95/MCA): Must be completed before going to sea for the first time.
  • Basic Fire Fighting and Prevention: To be completed within 3 months of starting work.
  • Basic First Aid/Elementary First Aid (STCW95): To be completed within 3 months.
  • Basic Health and Safety: To be completed within 3 months.

These courses are available through training providers like SFITA(NI) in Kilkeel, Portavogie, and Ardglass.

Requirements for Experienced Fishermen

If you have been working as a fisherman for 2 years or more, you must complete an additional mandatory course:

  • 1-day Safety Awareness and Risk Assessment.

Optional/Recommended Training

While not legally mandatory for all, the following is recommended and often required by boat owners:

  • 15-day Introduction to Commercial Fishing Course: This comprehensive course covers the mandatory safety training plus practical skills such as net mending, rope work, and stability.
  • Basic Fishing Vessel Stability.

Licensing and Certification

  • New Entrant Card: Upon completion of the four mandatory courses, you should apply to Seafish for a New Entrant photo ID card.
  • Certificates of Competency (CoC): As you progress, you may need CoCs based on the size of the vessel (\(<16.5m\) or \(>16.5m\)) and your role (e.g., Skipper, Mate).
  • Vessel License: The vessel itself must be licensed by DAERA.

For more information, visit the Seafish guidance or official UK government guidelines.

If anyone is interested in a career in the fishing industry, note that the courses can be expensive but are usually paid for by the boat owners. And once your have completed your time at sea, and got your sea legs, if fishing is not for you, you can diversify to working on oil platforms and working on windfarms.

And there are other jobs to in the marine sector that may suit you from cargo vessels to cruise ships and ferries.

(The above information is readily available on the internet where this article was sourced from.)

Royal Black Preceptory Confers Top Degrees

Staff Reporter
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Royal Black Preceptory Confers Top Degrees

Carrickmannon RBP 1085 holds ceremony where Sir Knights are presented with Red Cross degrees

On Tuesday 28th April twelve Sir Knights within Saintfield Royal Black District Chapter No. 12 received the Red Cross degree in Carrickmannon Orange Hall. 

The Royal Black Institution consists of eleven initiatory degrees based on Old Testament narratives, designed to impart Christian teachings and promote charitable, responsible behaviour.

The degrees, often termed “travels” or rituals, are typically taken in order: Royal Black, Royal Scarlet, Royal Mark, Apron and Royal Blue, Royal White, Royal Green, Gold, Star and Garter, Crimson Arrow, Link and Chain, and the final Red Cross degree.

The degrees in order, are:

  1. Royal Black Degree: Initiatory level.
  2. Royal Scarlet Degree: Focuses on loyalty.
  3. Royal Mark Degree: Focuses on the crossing of the Jordan (Joshua).
  4. Apron and Royal Blue Degree: Focuses on Solomon and the temple building.
  5. Royal White Degree: Focuses on David and Goliath.
  6. Royal Green Degree: Focuses on Adam/Eve and Noah’s Ark.
  7. Gold Degree: Focuses on the tribes in Gilead (Joshua).
  8. Star and Garter Degree: Focuses on Melchizedek (Hebrews).
  9. Crimson Arrow Degree: Focuses on Jehu’s purge (2 Kings).
  10. Link and Chain Degree: Focuses on Daniel and Babylon.
  11. Red Cross Degree: Focuses on the death/resurrection of Christ and the New Jerusalem.

Preceptories (or Encampments) may hold meetings where members, or “Sir Knights,” advance through these stages through study and ceremony.

A spokesperson said: “At the meeting in Carrickmannon, there were five Sir knights who are members of Carrickmannon RBP 1085 (Ian McIlveen, Neil Corken, Scott McKeag, Sam Dickson and Adam McIlveen), five from Ballycoan RBP 689 (Jonny Boal, Richard Munn, Adam Crawford, Robert McDowell and Jonny Clarke), one from Saintfield RBP 73 (Mark Patton) and one from Ravara RBP 998 (Ricky McKee). 

“Afterwards, the twelve Sir Knights were warmly congratulated by the Most Worshipful Sovereign Grand Master, Reverend William Anderson JP who then presented each with the Red Cross emblem and gave an inspirational address. 

“The majority of the twelve Sir Knights joined the Institution in May 2025 and received all eleven degrees from District Lecturers, Sir Knights Wilbert Thompson and David Cleland and the Scriptures were read on each occasion by the District Chaplain, Sir Knight Robin Fairbairn. 

“Sir Knight Wilbert Thompson travelled from his home in Larne to Carrickmannon each month over the past year, a journey time of over one hour each way, regardless of weather conditions. 

Seated on the front row with the Sir Knights are (l-r) Ivan McCullough, PCGM; Mervyn Barr, WDM; Paul McCarroll, CGM; Rev. William Anderson, SGM; James McIlveen; Robin Fairbairn, District Chaplain; David Gabbie, DDM and Ian Gibson, District Registrar.

“Many members of Saintfield District expressed how much they were indebted to the lecturing team they were fortunate to have in the District. 

“There was an excellent turn out of members within Saintfield District, particularly District Officers and members from RBPs 73, 213, 689, 998 and 1085 and the presence of distinguished Officers from the Imperial Grand Black Chapter and County Down Grand Black Chapter along with addresses  from a few members in attendance (including the WDM, Sir Knight Mervyn Barr and Rt. Worshipful Sir Knight Brian Hunter, PCGM) ensured the meeting would be long remembered by the twelve members who received the Red Cross degree.

“Sir Knight James McIlveen PM who joined Carrickmannon RBP 1085 in 1966 was presented with a Bible for 60 years of service to the Institution by the Sovereign Grand Master and Sir Knight Jonathan Gill, WM of the Preceptory, was presented with a 30-year service medal by the County Grand Master, Rt. Worshipful Sir Knight Paul McCarroll. 

“The County Grand Master presented Sir Knight Robin Fairbairn with a Bible for his father, Sir Knight John C (Jack) Fairbairn who was unable to attend owing to illness, to mark the occasion of being an affiliate member of Carrickmannon RBP 1085 for ten years and for his lecturing work within the Preceptory over a longer period.  Sir Knight John C Fairbairn earlier this year celebrated 75 years of membership in the Institution.

“Visiting Sir Knights also included Rt. Worshipful Sir Knight Brian Hunter PCGM, DCGR and Sir Knight Gary Alexander PDM, RBP 527, both members of Comber Royal Black District Chapter No. 10.”

The evening concluded with light refreshments supplied by ‘The Goose’, of High Street, Comber.

Hospital Nurse Honoured For Rossglass Rescue

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Hospital Nurse Honoured For Rossglass Rescue

A heroic Ards nurse is honoured following the courageous sea rescue of five children

Paediatric Nurse Veronica Sloan, works for the South Eastern Trust, has been recognised for her outstanding bravery after helping to save the lives of a family of five children last summer.

The extraordinary sea rescue took place on the 13th July 2025 at Rossglass beach.

Although the tide was initially out, it began to turn as the children Catherine, Cecilia, Mary, Maria and their brother Francis Smyth from Ballynoe went for a swim.

Ards Hospital’s Community Children’s Deputy Sister Veronica, together with friend and fellow Belfast sea swimmer Sinéad Deane, acted immediately. Wading into the water, they first reached Francis, Maria, and Cecilia, sending them safely back to their mother.

Veronica, carrying her phone in a waterproof bag, called 999 from knee-deep in the sea, triggering a rescue operation.

South Eastern paediatric Nurse Veronica Sloan has been recognised for her part in the rescue of five children at Tyrella Beach in the summer of 2025.

Meanwhile, Sinéad swam out to Mary and Catherine, who were treading water, and got the children back to shore with Veronica.

Both ladies helped keep them safe and provide essential care until Coastguard and emergency service teams arrived.

Both Veronica and Sinéad were recently awarded Honorary Testimonials from the Royal Humane Society for their courageous actions and also received Certificates of Recognition from the Coastguard and the Royal Lifesaving Society.

A special letter from President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, was also gifted to the pair.

Veronica shared how her and Sinéad’s experience was very much a case of, being in the “right place at the right time.”

Veronica said: “The whole experience has been very traumatic for all involved.

“It was a case of sliding doors, right place, right time. Myself and Sinéad’s Nursing skills played a big part that night in keeping the children safe until help arrived.

“I feel very proud to have been presented an extremely special certificate by my mother Mary, herself a Nurse of 48 years.

“I feel very overwhelmed and honoured to have been presented with these acknowledgements especially from the Chief of the Coastguard of Scotland and Northern Ireland and the President of Ireland.”

Executive Director of Nursing David Robinson said, “I’m so proud of Veronica. There is no doubt that her courage and quick thinking – and that of her friend Sinéad too – helped save the lives of five children.

“They both deserve to be honoured for their incredible bravery last year.”

Newcastle RNLI Assists Dundrum Bay Jet Skiers

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Newcastle RNLI Assists Dundrum Bay Jet Skiers

Newcastle RNLI alerted after jet skiers get into difficulty in Dundrum Bay

Newcastle RNLI were requested to launch on Saturday evening (9th May) following a report that a jet skier had got into difficulty in Dundrum’s inner bay.

The Newcastle volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat Cameronian, at 4.55pm. 

There was a northerly Force 4-5 fresh breeze at the time with choppy seas, clear skies, and good visibility.

The Cameronian D class lifeboat launches at Newcastle Harbour.

When the lifeboat helmed by Locky Leneghan and with crew members Andrew Lynas and Ciaran Leneghan onboard, arrived on scene, they were stood down when a communication came through that two casualties who were in the water and unable to remount their jet ski, had been safely taken ashore.

Locky Leneghan, Newcastle RNLI Helm said: ‘We want to commend the two casualties, one of whom blew the whistle on their lifejacket continuously to alert the crew of a nearby rowing boat from Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club, who were training in the bay at the time. 

“The rowers successfully recovered both casualties from the water and took them to the shore at Murlough Nature Reserve where they were assisted by Newcastle and Kilkeel Coastguard teams, and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service as a precautionary measure. 

“This was wonderful work by all involved and resulted in a great outcome.

‘We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to go prepared, always wear a lifejacket, always carry a means of communication, and always let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back.

“Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.“

Lyons Visits Donaghadee Sports Club

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Lyons Visits Donaghadee Sports Club

Lyons visits Donaghadee sports clubs to celebrate participation, inclusion and investment

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has visited sports clubs in Donaghadee this week to see first-hand the positive impact that community sport has on health, wellbeing and social inclusion.

The Minister met volunteers, coaches and players from Seaside Sharkies at Donaghadee Rugby Football Club, Ards and Donaghadee Cricket Club, and Donaghadee Football Club, recognising the vital role local sports clubs play in encouraging people to live active, healthier lives.

Minister Gordon Lyons said: “It has been a pleasure to visit these clubs in Donaghadee and meet the volunteers and participants who give so much of their time to ensure that sport is open and accessible to everyone.

“Clubs like these are at the heart of their communities and play a key role in helping people stay active, improve their health and build confidence and friendships.”

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons pictured with members of the Seaside Sharkies which is an inclusive non-contact rugby team based at Donaghadee Rugby Football Club.

Ards and Donaghadee Cricket Club recently merged in order to secure the future of cricket in the local area. The club fields multiple senior teams and has a growing junior section, providing opportunities for participation across generations.

The club recently received more than £4,000 of funding from the Department for Communities through the Minister’s Olympic Legacy Fund, delivered by Sport NI, for new equipment.

The support will go towards a ball-stopping net system, a mobile cricket cage and a bowling machines with balls.

Meeting with club officials at Northfield, the Minister heard how targeted investment helps clubs improve facilities and equipment, strengthening their ability to attract and retain players.

Minister Lyons said: “It is extremely positive to see directly how funding is making a difference. Investment through programmes such as my Olympic Legacy Fund supports clubs to grow, improve their facilities and provide better experiences for players and the wider community.

“Seeing the benefits first-hand reinforces just how important this support is.”

At Donaghadee Football Club, the Minister discussed the importance of modern, well-maintained facilities in supporting grassroots football and youth development.

The club has a long history in the town and continues to expand opportunities for young people to get involved in the sport.

The Minister thanked volunteers and club officials for their dedication and added: “None of this would be possible without the commitment of volunteers.

“Their hard work ensures that people of all ages can enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits of sport. Supporting that work remains a priority through the delivery of our Active Living Strategy.”

The visits reflect the Department’s commitment to the objectives of the Active Living Strategy, which aims to give more people, from every background and at every stage of life, the opportunity to participate in physical activity in safe, welcoming and inclusive environments.

Chat To Your GP About Early Signs Of Dementia

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Chat To Your GP About Early Signs Of Dementia

Community sessions aim to help family members and store staff spot early signs of dementia

A series of information sessions, designed to offer support, advice and understanding for those who may be worried about their memory, have received or are navigating a Dementia diagnosis will be held during Dementia Action Week.

The Dementia Friendly Communities Partnership, in the South Eastern Trust area, is focusing on helping people recognise the early signs of Dementia and to feel confident about seeking support.

South Eastern Trust Health Development Specialist, Later Years, Sandra Glover explained how staff will be offering information, a chance to talk to families and sharing their ‘Worried About Your Memory’ booklet which has been designed to help people understand the signs of Dementia and what steps to take next.

If you think that your family member may be experiencing signs of dementia, speak to your GP in the first instance.

Sandra said: “We are working with local businesses to provide information packs and encourage them to become more Dementia-friendly.

“Small changes like patience, awareness and clear communication can make a big difference to someone with memory loss.

“Creating a Dementia-friendly community is something we can all be part of. 

“We can all learn a little more about Dementia by becoming an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friend. Looking out for one another, starting conversations and making sure no one feels alone.

“As Co-Chair of the Dementia Friendly Partnership, I would encourage anyone who is worried about their memory, or about someone else they are close to, to not ignore it.

“I would advise that person to contact their GP, come to one of our sessions and talk to us during Dementia Action Week.”

Members of the partnership will be at the following locations:

Tuesday 19th May – Eurospar, Portaferry, 10.30am- 12.30pm

Wednesday 20th May  – Eurospar, Ardglass Road, Downpatrick, 10am-1pm

Thursday 21st May – Lesley Bloomfield Shopping Centre, 10am-4pm

Thursday 21st May – Eurospar, Kircubbin, 2.30pm -4.30pm  

Further information can also be found from the Alzheimer’s Society`:

Tel: 028 9066 4100

or at: www.alzheimers.org.uk

Clarke Concerned Over Newcastle Drain

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Clarke Concerned Over Newcastle Drain

Cllr Willie Clarke has called for a camera inspection on a Newcastle drain following repeated blockages

Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has called for urgent intervention from NI Water following ongoing drainage and flooding problems affecting local businesses at South Promenade in Newcastle.

Cllr Clarke said he has been contacted by local business owners regarding a persistent combined drain blockage outside their premises at South Promenade.

Cllr Clarke said: “Business owners have raised serious concerns about a combined drain that continually backs up during periods of heavy rain.

Mournes Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has called for a camera inspection on a drain on South Promenade that is affecting local shops.

While NI Water contractors previously carried out works that temporarily alleviated the issue, the problem has returned and continues to cause disruption and contamination at the rear of the business premises,” 

Cllr Clarke added: “Contractors have attended the site on a number of occasions to clear the blockage, however, the drain continues to flood and contaminate the back of the shop with waste water.

“This is clearly unacceptable for local business owners, there appears to be a damage to the pipe within the infrastructure, and I have formally requested that NI Water carry out a full camera inspection of the waste water infrastructure in front of the premises.

“Local businesses should not have to endure repeated flooding and contamination issues due to failing infrastructure.

“I will continue to engage with NI Water until this matter is fully addressed.”

Fishing Industry Eyes Decarbonisation Event

Jim Masson
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Fishing Industry Eyes Decarbonisation Event

UKSHORE Roadshow Event taking place in Belfast on 12th May 2026

Northern Ireland businesses are being encouraged by DAERA to find out how they can access a UK Government funding stream to drive innovation around decarbonisation in the maritime sector.

The event is taking place in Belfast on the UK Government’s £271 million investment to develop green boat fuel and boost innovation.

The fishing sector centred around Ardglass, Kilkeel, and Portavogie, which is under pressure from a number of sources impacting on its sustainability will be looking at what it can do to modernise its fleet and examine green fuel options.

The May 12th event today, organised by Northern Ireland Maritime and Offshore (NIMO) and hosted by A&L Goodbody at their Belfast offices, provides an opportunity for businesses to engage the UK Department for Transport and Innovate UK Business Connect on the fund which was announced in March through the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (SHORE) research programme.

Could the NI fishing fleet benfit from the decarbonisation initiative and find a way to cut its heavy dependency on diesel fuel ?

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “This investment has the potential to support many skilled jobs and deliver significant benefits for shipping and coastal communities.

“I strongly welcome the UK Government’s announcement on this substantial funding opportunity and would encourage local maritime businesses to engage with this event to understand the opportunities available.  

“This funding opportunity represents a real and meaningful step in supporting the maritime sector to reduce its emissions and reap the benefits of decarbonisation.

“This should in turn assist in the delivery of our collective climate ambition, building on the publication of Northern Ireland’s Climate Adaptation Programme, progress on the draft Climate Action Plan along with work to establish a Just Transition Commission for Northern Ireland.

“My Department is keen to see Northern Ireland businesses benefit fully from these developments.”

The creation of the SHORE research fund aligns with the passage of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Maritime Activities) Order 2026, which brings the UK domestic maritime sector within scope of the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS) from 1 July 2026.

Registration for the May 12 Belfast event is available (still open) at the following link: 

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/uk-shore-regional-tour-northern-ireland-tickets-1987381647005

The funding has been awarded through the seventh round of the clean maritime demonstration competition (CMDC) and the second round of zero emissions vessels and infrastructure (ZEVI) fund.

It will give successful companies in the maritime sector, including freight, passenger, commercial, leisure and fishing vessels, grants to help decarbonise by developing clean maritime fuels and infrastructure.

NMD MD Job Fair Returns For 2026

Staff Reporter
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NMD MD Job Fair Returns For 2026

Newry Mourne and Down Job Fair Returns for 2026 with Opportunities for all Job Seekers

Job seekers from across the district are invited to attend the upcoming Newry Mourne and Down Job Fair, taking place on Wednesday 3rd June at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry.

The event offers a valuable opportunity for anyone exploring employment, training or career progression options.

Hosted by Newry Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership, in collaboration with Cross Border Partnership Employment Services, the event will once again feature a wide range of employers from across the region.

With up to 60 organisations expected to attend, visitors can engage directly with recruiters and discover current vacancies across multiple industries.

Labour Market Partnerships, which create targeted employment action plans for council areas, are funded by the Department for Communities and allow for collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.

The event is free and open to all, operating on a drop-in basis. Attendees are encouraged to come prepared with copies of their CV and be ready to speak with employers about available roles and career pathways.

NMDDC Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell is photographed with Lydia McAleenan, Acting Head of Employer Services, Department for Communities, at the launch of Newry Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership Job fair, which will take place in the Canal Court, Newry on Wednesday 3 June from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

A broad spectrum of roles will be on offer, spanning sectors such as healthcare, construction, administration, retail, hospitality, logistics and more.

Opportunities will cater to a range of experience levels and include full-time, part-time and flexible working arrangements.

As the event continues to grow year-on-year, it remains an important fixture in the local employment calendar. Beyond job vacancies, the fair provides a space for individuals to gain advice, build confidence and make meaningful connections with employers and support services.

To ensure the event is as inclusive as possible, there will be a quiet time before the event begins, which starts at 10.30am.

This dedicated time will feature reduced noise and softer lighting, creating a more relaxed atmosphere for those who may find busy environments challenging. A quiet room will also be available throughout the event for anyone who wishes to take time out.

Highlighting the importance of creating direct connections between local employers and job seekers, Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “The Job Fair is always a standout event in our calendar, bringing real energy and opportunity together under one roof.

“It is a fantastic chance for people to step forward, have meaningful conversations with employers and discover opportunities they may not have considered before.

“Whether you are taking your first steps into the world of work, looking for a fresh challenge or returning to the labour market after some time away, this event is designed to inspire confidence and open doors.

“NMD Labour Market Partnership are especially proud to continue enhancing the experience so that everyone feels welcome, supported and ready to make the most of what is on offer at the Job Fair.”

Visitors will also have access to expert guidance from organisations including the NI Careers Service, Clanrye Group and local Further Education Colleges. These support services will offer advice on CV development, interview techniques and training opportunities.

Whether you are entering the workforce for the first time, returning after a break or simply looking for a new opportunity, the Newry Mourne and Down Job Fair provides a supportive and informative environment to take that next step.

Invitation To Motorbike Checks In Newcastle

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Invitation To Motorbike Checks In Newcastle

Motorcycle safety event coming to Newcastle County Down on Sunday 17th May

The South Down Neighbourhood Policing Team in partnership with PSNI Road Policing Unit and Newry, Mourne & Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership, is hosting a Motorcycle Safety event on the Central Promenade in Newcastle on Sunday 17th May.

Motorcycling enthusiasts can have their bike safety checked by a qualified mechanic and get tips and advice from police about keeping safe on our roads.

Sergeant Kenny Gracey said: “Unlike people travelling in motor vehicles, motorcyclists have a lot less protection when they’re involved in a collision.

“Motorcyclists are much more likely to be killed or seriously injured when involved in a road traffic collision than a car driver for the same distance travelled.

Attention motorbikers: don’t miss the Bikesafe event coming to Newcastle on the 17th May. (Photo: JimMasson/DownNews© – ai).

“This makes motorcyclists especially vulnerable if they come off their bike or are struck by another vehicle.

“We know motorcyclists are passionate about their sport and we want them to be able to pursue their pastime in the safest way possible.

“That is why, in addition to mechanics performing safety checks on bikes on the day, we will also have representatives from Bikesafe at the event.

“The aim of Bikesafe, a national police-led motorcycle road safety scheme, is to raise awareness amongst motorcyclists of the key risks they can face on the roads and assist them in becoming more confident and skilful advanced riders.”

Sergeant Gracy added: “Already this year four motorcyclists have been killed on our roads and as a police service we do not want to see any more needless loss of life.  

Representatives from the charities Mental Health Motorbike and the Air Ambulance NI  will also be on site along with our colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service.

“So come along to the event in Newcastle, have your bike checked and speak to police officers and the other agencies present, all of whom will be only too happy to provide any help or advice they can to make sure your motorcycling career is as long and as safe as possible.”

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