Calls for increase in scallop catch limits

Minister doesn't rule out review in March

The Island's fishing industry is at a "very low point," according to the CEO of the Manx Fish Producers Organisation, who is calling for daily catch limits to be increased.

David Beard says the unusually bad weather has meant crews have caught just 35% of the total allowable catch for the season, with four months down and only three to go.

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He told Manx Radio's Alex Wotton more about the current state of play:

Danny is a fisherman, with his own boat based in Ramsey.

He wasn't able to be recorded, but sent Manx Radio this account of his own experiences this season: (voiced by an actor):

The Minister of Environment, Food and Agriculture, Geoffrey Boot, hasn't ruled out a review of the current limits when the scallop board meets next month, though.

He told Alex Wotton he's aware of the plight of the Island's fleet: