(1) The object of the Commission is to regulate and manage the utilization of the fishery resources of Ghana and co-ordinate the policies in relation to them.

(2) Without prejudice to the general effect of subsection (1) , the

Commission shall in relation to fisheries perform the following functions:

(a) prepare and keep under continual review plans for the management and development of fisheries in waters under the jurisdiction of Ghana;

(b) establish priorities for the utilization of fishery resources which will provide the greatest benefits to the country;

(c) ensure the proper conservation of the fishery resource through the prevention of overfishing;

(d) strive to minimise, as far as practicable, fishery gear conflict among users;

(e) ensure the monitoring, control and surveillance of the fishery waters;

(f) promote sub regional, regional and international -cooperation in fisheries management;

(g) promote co-operation among local fishermen and advance development of artisanal fishing;

(h) carry out research and survey work for the assessment of stock of the fisheries resources;

(i) correlate fisheries with other water uses and environmental protection particularly with respect to the fish resources and food chain in the rivers, lagoons, lakes and the continental shelf along the coast of the country;

(j) standardise fish quality, weight and the basis for fish pricing in consultation with any other agency that has responsibility for the fish quality standards;

(k) make recommendations to the mister on grant of license for fishing ;

(l) in consultation with the Minister, control and CO-ordinate the importation of fresh and frozen fish;

(m) in collaboration with the competent authority, establish requirement

for manning fishing vessels and boats, safe1 y for crew arid vessels and for fishing gears in use to avoid damage by other vessels;

(n)hear and determine complaints from persons aggrieved in respect of matters arising from or related to fishing activities and the fishing industry generally;

(o) in collaboration with District Assemblies with fishing community .ensure the enforcement of the fishery laws including bye-laws made by the relevant District Assemblies; and

(p) Perform any other function conferred on it under this Act or any other enactment.