P-05-778 – Protection of Razor Clams on Llanfairfechan beach –

Correspondence from petitioner to Committee, 23.03.18

Dear Petition Committee Members,

Re: Comments for Petition Committee Meeting March 2018 – See emboldened sections for key points

Thank you for the opportunity to submit comments for the next Petition Committee Meeting.

In respect of the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, planning and rural affairs letter (March 2018), which states that the ‘stock assessment methodology’ report is due to be submitted by 31^st March.  After the report is received a contract will be put out to tender for the assessment work to be conducted. Being mindful of comments forwarded to the Petition Committee in February; the residents, who attended the Public meeting held by Janet Finch-Saunders (AM) last July, raised many concerns about the apparent total lack knowledge regarding the types /extent/ density/ overall health and potential environmental effects of over fishing of the razor clam beds on Llanfairfechan beach. Therefore, could I kindly request these areas of concern be built into the wording of the remit that is given those persons who are successful in the bid for the tender?

To restate February comments, stories about overfishing are being played out across the planet, so it’s good to have the opportunity to do something positive to improve the environment at local level.  It is important that the people the Welsh Government select to conduct the research of the razor clam beds on Llanfairfechan beach that the researchers are apprised of fundamental concerns outlined within the ongoing documents and information about this Petition and the underpinning need for rigorous legislation to protect the razor clams on Llanfairfechan beach.

 Once again; the lack of a current strategy for assessing razor clam stocks means that whoever conducts this research will be in the unrivalled position of being ‘map makers’ rather than ‘map readers’ in collecting evidence and setting benchmarks and recommendations which will inform 'fisheries' practices to help maintain this precious environmental area for the future. THIS REALLY IS AN OPPORTUNITY, NOT, TO BE MISSED.

In addition, the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, planning and rural affairs letter (March 2018), states that signs relating to the closure of the razor clam beds are prominently displayed at the 5 access points to the beach. However, as of this today, (3^rd April), I found only two signs on the promenade. One of which is sello-taped to a waste bin near the main jetty and another which is tied to a nearby lamp post. Neither of which are prominent.  There do not appear to be any signs on or near other access points. 

I wish to thank the Petition Committee for continuing work on this petition.

Yours faithfully,

Vanessa L Dye