This document is intended as a working document to generate and facilitate discussion on the use of VMS for the Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) of fishing vessels. The document is directed at fisheries managers, scientists and others with an interest in improving the sustainable use of wild fish stocks. It seeks to clarify the current status of VMS and allow informed decisions and plans to be made in relation to implementing VMS for MCS purposes in all countries but particularly those actively considering VMS and those with little background in the use of VMS.
It is envisaged that the document will be used in international fora, workshops and seminars on MCS as a discussion document leading to further implementation of VMS and agreement and standardization of VMS.
