Objections Procedure - Independent Adjudicator

To ensure independence and remove the potential for any conflict of interest in this process, the MSC appoints Independent Adjudicators for a term of 3 years. Independent Adjudicators are responsible for implementing the Objections Procedure including making decisions on whether an objection will be formally reviewed (according to existing decision criteria) and, if so, for forming and chairing a formal Objections Panel.

The individuals selected for this role must have demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
•    Jurisprudence
•    Fisheries law
•    Dispute resolution and/or mediation preferably related to natural resource management.

He/she shall not be involved in activities that constitute a conflict of interest. Such conflicts shall include, but are not limited to:
•    Commercial involvement with the fisheries under objection or businesses handling products from such fisheries
•    Involvement in management, research or lobbying for or against any fishery under objection or be involved with an organisation that has indicated its opposition to the certification of the fishery
•    Any other reason that would be expected to create a potential conflict of interest in this role.

 There are currently four Independent Adjudicators.