AFBI scientist accompanies NI Minister to discuss Manx fisheries collaboration

Pieter-Jan Schön, Head of the Fisheries and Aquatics Ecosystems Branch at AFBI, accompanied the DAERA Minister to the Isle of Man recently to meet her counterpart, Geoffrey Boot, to discuss areas for future collaboration and to raise important issues relating to Northern Ireland fishermen.

At the meeting the need to develop a more coordinated approach to Irish Sea science between Northern Ireland, Wales and the Isle of Man was highlighted. The aim is to establish common assessment for inshore fish stocks under national management and to improve integration of marine science. 

Minister McIlveen said she wanted to see a more coordinated approach for Irish Sea science between departments in NI, Isle of Man and Wales. AFBI is arranging a scoping meeting in early 2017 involving Bangor University, the Welsh and Isle of Man governments.

Other issues discussed were research projects, including scallop enhancement, and collaboration in Pan-Irish Sea queen scallops, Isle of Man prawn fishery and enforcement.

Miss McIlveen added: “It is important to develop strong relationships with our neighbours and to work towards introducing sustainable fisheries policies that are of benefit to all.”

Mr Boot said: “Fisheries is a traditional and economically important industry for both the Isle of Man and Northern Ireland and we have a common interest in managing and better understanding fish stocks to ensure sustainability.

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