The Isle of Man’s government has closed a queen scallop fishery to protect stocks against overfishing.
The scallops, which are known as “queenies” on the island, are to be protected after an agreement between local fishermen, the island’s government and marine scientists. The decision restricts fishing near Chicken Rock in the south of the island.
Environment Minister Phil Gawne told the BBC that the trilateral decision would mean a brighter future for the island’s fishing industry.
"For the first time in a generation we actually have fishermen working with scientists and the government, all agreeing to do things which will result in a more sustainable industry.
"I will not allow one or two skippers to risk the future of this fishery in the cavalier fashion that we have seen elsewhere in the Irish Sea this year."
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