Government gains greater control of territorial waters

Sat, 28 Jul 2012

The DEFA Minister has welcomed a new Fisheries Management Agreement - saying the Island is now on an equal footing with its Irish Sea neighbours.

Phil Gawne says the agreement heralds a new co-operation on fisheries policy and demonstrates the desire to promote marine stability and combating overfishing.

The FMA agreement means the government now has upped its control of its territorial waters from three miles to 12 miles.

It also means the concurrence of the UK Secretary State before introducing new bye-laws is not required.

Mr Gawne said detailed discussions and negotiations have taken place over the last year but said it was a positive step forward:(play media file below)