Government in talks with Northern Ireland over fishing concerns

'Operational challenges' acknowledged but visa and immigration requirements remain unchanged, says gov't

Government says it's holding discussions with authorities in Northern Ireland about who - and who can't - fish in Manx territorial waters.

The Isle of Man has made headlines in media outlets across the Irish Sea in recent weeks, with claims the Manx Government had 'banned' trawlers from Northern Ireland from fishing the waters that lie within 12 miles of our coastline.

Changes, it said, meant that foreign crew members from outside the Isle of Man who hold a UK skilled worker or transit visas would no longer be permitted to fish these waters.

The Northern Ireland Fish Producer's Organisation estimates this will impact on over two-thirds of employees on their boats.

On-Island, a local food producer says working restrictions implemented by the Island's Immigration Service could be 'disastrous'.

The manager of Isle of Man Seafood Products, William Caley, says it's crucial a solution is found soon:

In response, a government spokesperson says: "While the Isle of Man Government is aware of concern raised among the Irish Sea fishing community, there have been no recent changes to the Isle of Man’s visa or immigration requirements for foreign nationals working in the Island’s waters. The compliance activity around this position has not changed and there are no immediate plans to make any changes."

"Those who do not hold either British or Irish citizenship are required to obtain a valid immigration permission before engaging in employment within the Isle of Man’s territorial waters. 

"This includes securing appropriate entry clearance under the established Worker Migrant Visa framework, supported by a Confirmation of Employment issued by an Isle of Man employer.

"The Isle of Man Government is mindful of the operational challenges this presents for parts of the fishing sector — including those vessels that have traditionally fished in Manx waters under longstanding arrangements — and discussions with the relevant Northern Ireland authorities are underway." 

"This process aims to support a clear and workable approach going forward, and one that provides certainty for vessel operators while upholding the respective legislative requirements."

You can find more details HERE.