The Northern Ireland Fishermen’s Federation (NIFF) has partnered with Icelandic tech company Hefring Marine to pilot its Intelligent Marine Assistance System (IMAS) on commercial fishing trawlers.
The initiative aims to help the fleet tackle rising fuel costs, improve safety, and reduce emissions.
Supported by funding from the former Marine Environment & Fisheries Fund under the UK Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the project will involve members of the Northern Ireland Fish Producers’ Organisation (NIFPO) and the Anglo Northern Ireland Fish Producers’ Organisation (ANIFPO).
Hefring Marine’s technology delivers live operational data, to help crews better understand fuel use and vessel handling in varying sea conditions. The system will also be assessed for its potential to enhance safety by offering data-based guidance on vessel operation.
“Fuel represents one of the most significant operating costs for fishing vessels,” said Adam Holland, Fisheries Sustainability Officer for the Northern Irish fishing industry.
“By working with Hefring Marine, we aim to give vessel operators the tools to monitor and manage their consumption more effectively, supporting profitability while also supporting our fleet in aligning with the UK’s emissions reduction targets.”
Crew training will be included to ensure users can interpret and apply data insights effectively. The results will provide baseline information for future adoption of alternative technologies and sustainable fishing practices, with the long-term goal of modernising vessel operations across the Northern Irish fleet.
