Responsibilities of scientific observers
Article 63
1. In particular, Member States shall require observers to: (a) record and report information on the fishing activity, which shall include at least the following: (i) data concerning total target catch, by-catch and discards (including sharks, sea turtles, marine mammals and seabirds), size composition, disposition status (i.e. retained, discarded dead, released alive), and biological samples for life history studies (e.g. gonads, otoliths, spines, scales); (ii) fishing operation information, including area of catch by latitude and longitude, fishing effort information (e.g. number of sets, number of hooks, etc.), date of each fishing operation, including, as appropriate, the start and stop times of the fishing activity; (b) observe and record the use of by-catch mitigation measures and other relevant information; (c) submit any proposals they consider appropriate to improve the efficiency of conservation measures and scientific monitoring. 2. Member States shall ensure use of robust data collection protocols, including, if necessary, the use of photography or cameras. 3. Masters of the vessels shall ensure appropriate access to the vessel and its operations to allow the observers to carry out their responsibilities effectively.