Scallop catch limit is a 'balancing act'

Working relationship with others must be maintained

A balancing act – that’s how the environment minister has described the decision to impose a catch limit on the Island’s fishery.

Geoffrey Boot introduced a quota this week to restrict the amount fishermen can take.

He acted after almost 800 tonnes of king scallops were taken in the first six days of the season, which runs between November and May – a figure he described as ‘unsustainable’.

Some Manx fishermen say they’re unable to compete with larger off-Island vessels.

Mr Boot says maintaining a working relationship with other jurisdictions also has to be considered.