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Consultation on measures to protect queen scallop fishery

Monday, 22 December 2014

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) is consulting stakeholders and other interested parties over proposals for the future management of the Island’s queen scallop fishery. 

A decline in stock, together with large catches in recent years, has led to a need for new management measures to ensure the long term sustainability of the fishery, which has great value to the economy. 

The queen scallop fishing season runs from early summer until the total allowable catch, set by DEFA annually, is reached. 

This year only a limited catch was permitted after DEFA’s scientific advisers warned stock levels were worryingly low. 

DEFA’s consultation asks whether there is support in principle for restricting entry to the fishery through the introduction of a ‘cap’ on fishing for queen scallops and if so, what form this should take. Options include only allowing existing licence-holders to fish, or restricting the fishery to those with a suitable track record over three seasons. 

Respondents are being asked how this track record should best be measured. 

DEFA is also seeking responses on the fairest methods of allocating fishing from 2016 and beyond. 

Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:

‘We need to find an acceptable compromise that will enable stock levels to recover, for the long term good of this vital industry, whilst safeguarding the livelihoods of those involved in it. 

‘Through this consultation, we hope stakeholders will help us to decide how best to reach this compromise over the next few years.’ 

DEFA has written to key stakeholders to invite them to participate in the consultation. The document can be found at www.gov.im/consultations.gov and the closing date for responses is 9 February 2015.

Copies of the consultation can also be obtained from

The specified contact could not be found.


Consultation on measures to protect queen scallop fishery

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