DEFA proposes ending trawling in certain parts until 2026
A major consultation by DEFA which could shape the future use of a large area of the Island's territorial waters known as the Western Irish Sea Mud-Belt closes Friday (16 February).
The proposal would see an end to trawling in certain areas until at least 2026. The primary driver for the new measures would be to enable scientific research into the importance of muddy habitats in capturing and storing carbon.
Other closed areas within the mud-belt could deliver benefits in the form of a sustainable low-impact fishery for Nephrops using wicker baskets known as Creels. Nephrops is a collective name for Dublin Bay Prawns and Langoustine.
Dr David Beard is Chief Executive Officer of the Manx Fish Producers Association:

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