The perception of chronic and acute risks in the Northern Ireland fishing industry

Over the past twenty years the number of full-time fishermen in Northern Ireland has declined dramatically and the perception of risk within the industry may be one salient factor affecting this trend. This research investigated the influential effect of risk in the decision making process and was carried out in Portavogie harbour with forty active fishermen. An in-depth survey utilising projective techniques analysed through principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis revealed that fishermen simplify the decision making process. A two factor solution (75% of the variance) indicated that risks associated with personal injury or death are perceived as either acute or chronic. Further analysis of the dimensions of the risk revealed three important facets that are considered when making a judgement about the risk – personal knowledge, likely outcome and scientific data provided. Socio demographic variables found to affect risk perception included the age, experience, current role and boat ownership. Recommendations include improving risk communication recognising that different strategies are required for acute and chronic risk and that training within their core skills programmes and recognition that improved scientific communications will help alleviate the risk perceived.