As well as contentious items such as a Sea Rod Licence, Bag Limits, Marine Protected Areas etc forthcoming Government consultations on a number of marine issues will give anglers and angling organisations a chance to respond with their views on the kind of things that anglers want to see in future, as well as their views on the things that they don't want.

Below is a list of imminent consultations, with links to relevant information and how and where to respond:   

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- Response to the Fisheries 2027 Vision have to be in by 26th April

http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/fish-2027/index.htm

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- DEFRA are asking for input to the EU Discards proposals by the 31st May
http://ec.europa.eu/fisheries/press_corner/press_releases/com07_18_en.htm

Contact Patrick Cotter for details patrick.cotter@defra.gsi.gov.uk

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- Responses to the Marine Bill White Paper are needed by 8th June

http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/marinebill-whitepaper07/index.htm

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- Responses to the EU Maritime Green Paper are required by 30th June

http://ec.europa.eu/maritimeaffairs/policy_en.html#com

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- And the DEFRA RSA Strategy 12 week consultation starts 'In the Spring/Early Summer'

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As well as responding in writing, there is often a chance to attend Regional Meetings and a chance to present views directly as well as to discuss issues with DEFRA representatives.

A good showing of anglers at these meetings helps to convince DEFRA that anglers are interested in these issues, and that their views ned to be taken into account.