Brexit could stop foreign vessels fishing in Manx waters

Fri, 07 Jul 2017

Foreign fishing vessels could be banned from fishing in Manx waters once the UK completes the Brexit process.

The UK Environment Secretary announced plans earlier this week to prohibit vessels from elsewhere fishing in British waters, which is currently allowed under the London Fisheries Convention.

Michael Gove will be writing to Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Geoffrey Boot to formally confirm the two-year notice period.

The same convention permits fishermen from France, Belgium and the Republic of Ireland to fish around the Isle of Man.

The DEFA says it's continuing to monitor developments, and that few vessels from other countries are allowed to fish in Manx waters, so the change isn't likely to affect Manx fishermen.