The second stakeholder seminar was held on the 30th November 2015. The aim of the seminar was to update stakeholders on the marine surveys that were carried out by Oceana in June and July 2015, and provide an opportunity for stakeholders to provide their views and suggestions for the next set of surveys that will take place in 2016.
A presentation was given by Dr Leyla Knittweis-Mifsud from the University of Malta – Department of Biology who, together with her colleague Dr Julian Evans, participated in the 2015 marine surveys led by Oceana, and provided their expertise and support. The presentation gave an overview of the 2015 LIFE BaĦAR Project Survey Expedition, past research, anthropogenic impacts observed during the expedition, as well as future work in 2016. Please find presentation here.
Following the presentation, views were shared on potential areas of interest for the 2016 surveys, as well as feedback on anthropogenic impacts relating to marine habitats, in particular impacts from diving (in caves) and from discarded fishing gear (benthic habitats).
Representatives from Transport Malta (Ports and Yachting Directorate), the Professional Diving Schools Association, Atlam Diving Club, Birdlife Malta, University of Malta (Department of Geography), and the Federation of Amateur Fishing Associations (Federazzjoni ta l-Ghaqdiet tas-Sajjieda Dilettanti Malta) participated in the stakeholder seminar, together with representatives from project partners MEPA, University of Malta-Department of Biology, and the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture within MSDEC.
Please click here to view photos.
