Penguin News

25/10/2024

The Board of Fortuna Ltd has announced the acquisition of Holyhead Towing Company Ltd as of October 25, 2024.
Holyhead Towing has a long relationship with the Falkland Islands. They were instrumental in identifying the Falklands ferry Concordia Bay and assisting with the subsequent adaptation. They were partners in the establishment of Workboat Services in 2002, remaining a substantial shareholder in the company until 2023. More recently, Holyhead Towing provided a vessel in support of the 2015/2016
hydrocarbons exploration campaign.
Holyhead Towing operate a fleet of modern and versatile vessels used in support of energy, marine civil engineering, dredging and renewable energy projects. The fleet includes ultra-shallow and shallow-draught anchor handling tugs, multicats, workboats and specialist transport vessels.
Holyhead Towing has a range of vessels in its fleet of 15 and is known for innovations in the sector.
Established in 1966, Holyhead Towing is based on the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales but works throughout the world. Current or recent projects include those in the Arabian Gulf, Africa, Indian Ocean and throughout Europe.
James Wallace, Managing Director Fortuna Ltd, said: “This is a significant acquisition for Fortuna which builds on our strengths as a company, helps further diversify our business, and provides exciting capabilities and opportunities for the Falklands in the
future. Holyhead Towing is a strong company that we know well, with a clear plan for growth. We are very excited to be involved in the future of the Company, and I am delighted to welcome them into the Fortuna Group. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the teams at Pinsent Masons and Kreston Reeves for their invaluable assistance in progressing this acquisition”
James Burns, Managing Director Holyhead Towing Company Ltd, said “This is a great step forward for the Company, allowing us to chart a course toward an impressive
future. Over the coming years, we will focus on strategic investments in our fleet, driven by our commitment to safety, quality, and innovation, all grounded in our extensive experience and deep understanding of our customers’ needs. We extend our gratitude to the board of Fortuna, as well as the crews, management, and customers of HT, for their patience and support throughout this process.”
Stewart Graves, Chairman of Holyhead Boatyard Ltd, said: “This transaction marks the end of the Meade family’s ownership of Holyhead Towing after almost six decades. The business is passing into good hands with the Fortuna team, and the Meade family will remain active supporters of the Marine Services business in Holyhead which they retain. We appreciate the hard work of all concerned including our advisers Cavendish and DLA.
We wish Fortuna and the Holyhead Towing team the best of luck for a bright future in their development of the Company.

08/10/2024

Check out our Flash Fiction Writing Competition - 250 words max - two categories one for students from IJS/FICS and one for adults. Prizes of a Kindle Paperwhite for adults and Kindle Kids for younger ones donated by CFL Ltd and second prize goody bags from CFL Ltd - entries from those currently living in the Falklands (because of the nature of prizes). Email your entry to [email protected] by October 31

24/09/2024

New cooperation agreement between the UK and Argentina

The Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly has welcomed an announcement of a new cooperation agreement between the UK and Argentina on a suite of matters relating the Falkland Islands and wider South Atlantic, which reflects the importance of collaboration on key issues which affect the Falkland Islands and Argentina, and the wider region. This agreement comes with no change in the individual positions of the Falkland Islands, United Kingdom, or Argentina, in regard to the sovereignty, or territorial or maritime jurisdiction over the Falkland Islands – as per the formula on sovereignty in paragraph 2 of the Joint Statement of 19 October 1989 between the United Kingdom and Argentina.
The content of this new cooperation agreement includes the resumption of the weekly São Paulo–Mount Pleasant flight; the need to take concrete steps in the areas of fisheries conservation and improved connectivity for the Falkland; to organise a visit to the Islands by next-of-kin of fallen soldiers and an agreement to resume negotiations to complete the third phase of the Humanitarian Project Plan together with the International Committee of the Red Cross.
MLA Jack Ford, Chair of the Legislative Assembly, said “We have been involved throughout the negotiation on these important measures of cooperation. The resumption of the weekly São Paulo–Mount Pleasant flight will continue to strengthen our economy, tourism, and connectivity to South America and beyond. We look forward to being able to announce a timeline for the return of this connection, though this is subject to ongoing discussions with the airlines.”
“Cooperation on fisheries matters is essential for the conservation of marine resources in the South-West Atlantic, and the stability of our economy. We recognise the importance of working together on the exchange of fisheries data, which will help to protect the sustainability of our shared maritime environment.”
“We also support the continuation of humanitarian cooperation through the third phase of the Humanitarian Project Plan, which aims to identify remaining currently unidentified bodies at the Argentine Cemetery. The resumption of family visits to the graves of Argentine soldiers in the Falklands provides an opportunity for grieving families to pay their respects.”
The Legislative Assembly is committed to engaging constructively while always upholding the self-determination and wishes of the people of the Falkland Islands.

16/08/2024

Cancellation of the second Loligo season

In July 2024 the Falkland Islands Fisheries Department conducted a routine pre-season survey prior to the second Loligo season, working in close partnership with local fishing companies. The survey results showed the lowest second pre-season biomass estimate since 2008, with the lower end of the estimate being below the Fisheries Department safe stock replenishment threshold of 10,000 tonnes. Following FIFD consultation with the fishing industry it was agreed to take a precautionary approach and delay the start of the fishing season, subsequently carrying out a repeat survey in early August 2024. The results of this survey, which was completed on Wednesday 14 August, revealed the average biomass estimate was now well below the 10,000 tonnes safe threshold.

As a result, the Fisheries Department has made the decision not to open the second Loligo season. This decision has been taken as a conservation measure; allowing fishing to proceed when the biomass is at an unprecedented low would pose a serious risk of long-term damage to the Loligo population, which may in turn negatively impact the industry for many years in the future. The Falkland Islands Government is committed to scientific evidence-based decisions that ensure the long-term sustainability of one of the Falkland Islands most valuable fisheries and this approach has been taken following discussion with stakeholders in the Falklands fishing industry.

Despite the fishing industry agreeing with the reasons not to open the second Loligo season, it was noted by them that this will have a significant impact on the fishing sector, financially and operationally, over the coming months and possibly years.

FIFCA Chair Cheryl Roberts, speaking on behalf of the Loligo Producers Group, said “This is a challenging situation following on from the early closure of the second season in 2023. High bunker prices, elevated levels of global supply-chain inflation not experienced for decades and continued high borrowing interest rates are adding to an already challenging environment, particularly at a time when around 20% of the Loligo fleet are currently or are about to be renewed at substantial capital cost (£100m+). It is unprecedented in the Loligo fishery for vessels to mobilise for the season and then for the fishery not to go ahead. LPG recognises the need for a precautionary approach to protect the future seasons. Once these factors are accumulated, it is highly likely that 2024 will see a downturn in profitability and tax payments from the sector and that we are currently working with our membership to better understand this. We remain committed to working collaboratively with Fisheries on the matter and seeking the best possible outcome for the fishery.”

15/08/2024

Update on the consultation on Sea Lion offshore oil development

On Tuesday 2 July 2024 it was announced that Navitas Petroleum Development and Production Ltd (Navitas) issued a revised Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) concerning its proposals for the drilling of oil wells and offshore production from the Sea Lion Field Northern Development Area, Phase 1 and 2.

The Falkland Islands Government began a public consultation on this revised EIS, from 2 July 2024 to 13 August 2024.

A total of 25 representations were received from individuals, businesses and other organisations, with several FIG departments also submitting representations.

The representations have been shared with Navitas, who now have 28 days to review the submissions and provide FIG with a response. This may result in revisions to the EIS, which will be presented to ExCo. After this, the representations and Navitas’ response will be made public.

The Department of Mineral Resources would like to thank members of the public and organisations for their active participation on the EIS process.

23/11/2023

Apologies, the names of the FIDF recruits were missed off the photo in this week's paper. They are Benjamin Taylor, Sherwin Deloso & Cristian Pechene. Congratulations to all.

22/08/2023

Following an announcement at 5pm today Penguin News can confirm that there are two candidates for the 2023 Camp Byelection: Jack Christopher Ford & Gary Colin Webb.

Penguin News will have further information in the coming weeks in the build up to the by election on September 21.

04/08/2023

The Falkland Islands Government has confirmed there is a vacancy in the elected membership of the Camp constituency of the Legislative Assembly. A By-election is now scheduled for Thursday 21 September 2023 across the Camp constituency.
The closing date to apply to go on the Register of Electors is Monday 21 August 2023. After this time no application can be accepted. In order to be eligible for registration as an elector, the applicant must be: a British/British Overseas Territory/British Overseas citizen; a Falkland Islands status holder; aged 18 years or over; and resident in the Falkland Islands: (a) on the date of application; and (b) for the 12 months preceding the application; or may be treated as being so resident under the Electoral Ordinance.
If you think you are entitled to vote in the forthcoming By-election, you are advised to check if you name is on the Register of Electors, by visiting www.fig.gov.fk/registry.
Further information and application forms are available online or from the Registry Office; please email [email protected] or call 27271.

04/08/2023

September date for by-election? Check out the story on our website

September date for by-election 4 August 2023 Categories: Community, Politics, Tourism The by-election for the camp constituency Legislative Assembly seat is anticipated to take place on Thursday, September 21, Attorney General Simon Young has told Penguin News.Mr Young explained that the deadline fo...

14/07/2023

Managed to get one last interview at the closing ceremony party with one of the stars of the football team, Ever Monsefu. Thanks to Andres for translating.

13/07/2023

Some final thoughts on today's game and the football teams performance in the Island Games.

13/07/2023

EDIT - LATE CHANGE (Ethan George in for Dayne) Following late fitness tests, the line up for the match v Aland is:

Ross Peters

Ever Monfesu
Josh Peck
Torin Harte
Matt Francis

Shaun East
Tobi Adeoye
Matthias Reyes

Jose Castro
Ethan Gilson-Clarke
Ethan George

Jordan Betts makes the bench, but unfortunately Jake Hawskworth is not fit enough to play any part.

13/07/2023

On day 4 of the Island Games the highlight of the day was Bill Chater winning his silver medal in the Archery Recurve individual knockout. He progressed to the final without any issues, but couldn't quite maintain the standard to take the win in the final.

In badminton Ross Stewart had made his way to the last 16 of the men's singles, but came up against tough opposition at this late stage and was defeated in 2 tight games by his Isle of Man opponent.

In bowls singles and doubles, despite 3 wins overall, medal chances look slim with the competitors sitting in positions in their tables where they would need other results to go their way to make progress.

Golf proved difficult conditions once again, however Ian Stewart recovered from a poor opening round to hit 86, however Kevin Clapp is still the leading performers with a score of 177 after 2 rounds.

In Air rifle, Sarah Bonner had a terrific qualifying and final shoot to ultimately finish in 4th place, which given this was her first international appearance and the first time a Falkland athlete had compete in Air Rifle at an Island games was remarkable.

In swimming there were 3 new personal bests on the day and on the pistol range, Nevin shot to 13th place with a score of 497. Table Tennis competed in the singles with Daniel Camaco being the only competitor to get out of his group and reach the last 32, where he lost to his Guernsey opponent.

In the Automatic Ball Trap, the Falklands team of Shaun Jaffray and Paul Smith finished in 10th place on a final score of 121, with the individual still to come. On the day Paul Smith hit a personal best for 25 clays of 19.

12/07/2023

Bill Chater gives us his thoughts after negotiating his way past his Isle of Wight opponent in the last 16 of the Head to Head knockout this morning.

11/07/2023

At the archery range the morning session involved shooting for a ranking which would determine who they will be drawn against in the knockout events. Bill managed to secure himself joint second in the rankings which would place him in a strong position in the individual knockout on Wednesday.
In the afternoon it was the mixed knockout, which paired Bill with Kirsty and after a bye to the quarter finals they were drawn against a strong Faroe Islands pair. The format takes the total score from 2 arrows for each archer over an 80 second period, with the winning pair getting 2 points or it resulting in 1 point each if there is a draw. After losing the first 2 ends to move 4-0 down, Bill and Kirsty managed to win the 3rd end with a score of 30 from a possible 40. The Faroese were consistently strong though and ended the Falklands pairs chances in the next end, eventually winning 6-2.
Over the next couple of days there will be further chances to progress to the medal rounds in the individual and team recurve knockouts.

11/07/2023

Ross Stewart had an outstanding day on the badminton winning 2 singles matches against strong opposition and narrowly losing out when partnering Doug Clark in the men's doubles against the experienced host Island pair of Hardy and Trebart. Having disposed of Orkney's Reid in the first round and then Steven Quayle from the Isle of Man, he will take on Cheng of the Isle of Man in the last 16 on Wednesday.
There were singles wins for Dwight Joshua, Ben Chater, Zoe Morris, Soraye March and Louise Williams in first round encounters, but their competitions were ended in the following round.
The men's doubles in women's doubles provided more difficult obstacles, however Vicky Chater and Cheryl March won their first round match against their Bermudan opponents, before succumbing to Kirk and Li of Isle of Man in the last 16.

11/07/2023

Cathy Pollard and Tansie Bonner shot in the 25m Standard Pistol finishing with scores of 383 and 357 to finish 12th and 13th respectively. That placed them in 6th position in the team event with a total of 740.
With Graham having a day off it was left to Nevin Middleton to take on the ISSF 50m free pistol where he had a final placing of 14th scoring 485 points. In clay, Shaun Jaffray hit 83 to finish in 17th place in the Olympic Trap individual competition, with Paul Smith shooting more consistently than the previous day hitting a 55 for 22nd place.

11/07/2023

With silver medals being the order of the morning after the men's triples team of Cecil, Chris and Olly fell just short in what had been an outstanding run to the final, singles and doubles were on the menu for the afternoon.
Daphne missed out on two victories in the day by the smallest of margins as she was pipped by 1 point in her match with her Western Isles, but then took a 25-7 win over Worthington of Ynys Mon. Cecil after his heroics in the triples started his singles campaign with a defeat against Jersey, whilst his teammates Olly and Chris ran out convincing winners by 22-1 against Hamilton and Randall of Orkney. The ladies pairs team of Sybie Summers and Trudi Clarke had a tough opening against host Island pair Bonsall and Nuery and will be looking to bounce back in their upcoming matches tomorrow.