work-related injuries.” TSSFA Secretary General Shih Chiao-chih explained that after ILOC188 standards began to be applied, only two new squid fishing vessels were built according to the new regulations. Previously, a single vessel could accommodate 70 to 75 crew members—the maximum allowed by law—but that was before the new regulations were enforced. After implementing C188 standards, vessel owners had to allocate more space to workers’ living quarters. Consequently, the maximum number of crew members dropped to fewer than 50, and after accounting for management staff, only 45 positions remained for other workers.36 Fishing vessels with a gross tonnage between 20 and 100 (small longline fishing vessels), have relatively smaller hulls. Living spaces were already limited for older vessels, making it challenging to meet the new construction and rebuilding standards required by ILO-C188. Vessel owner Chen Wen-sheng expressed hope that the Fisheries Agency could expedite guidance for small longline vessels to be rebuilt and re-licensed. His suggestion, “I could merge two small boats into one and rebuild it to improve the living spaces. For instance, older vessels often had facilities located below deck. If we could move them above deck, adding one or two bathrooms, a dining area, a water dispenser, a seawater desalination machine, and Wi-Fi, it would completely transform the living conditions for the crew—a 180-degree transformation.” 37 Kung Kun-tong mentioned that vessels have gradually been upgraded to CT5 standards in recent years. However, these changes have led to a one-third reduction in catch volumes, significantly increasing costs. Additionally, raising a vessel’s tonnage beyond 100 tons presents another issue: fish caught by these vessels cannot be exported to Japan. 38 NHRC (January 6, 2023). “Actions and Dialogues on Human Rights Issues of Migrant Fishers: Stakeholder Forum,” Meeting Record with the TSSFA. 37 NHRC (March 17, 2023). “Interview Record with Man Fu Tsai Fishing Vessel Owner Chen Wen-sheng.” 38 NHRC (January 6, 2023). “Actions and Dialogues on Human Rights Issues of Migrant Fishers: Stakeholder Forum,” Record of Kaohsiung Session. 36 45