Boot says number of licences has held steady
The minister with responsibility for fishing doesn't believe the Manx fleet could reduce by 25% in the coming year.
Geoffrey Boot says the number of licences in operation doesn't back up claims made by David Beard from Manx Fish Producers.
Mr Boot says he was taken aback by the comment and, as a result, checked up on the figures the department has for boats operating in the industry:-
Manxman repairs expected to exceed £2.5m
The Steam Packet's flagship has been out of action since July
Treasury Minister: Taxpayer footing Manxman repair bill
Steam Packet has previously said it would be paying
Island's youngest ever MHK says he has 'a lot to prove'
Eighteen-year-old Daniel Davison elected in Glenfaba and Peel
"Clearly I'm a candidate" for chief minister - Chris Thomas
Douglas Central MHK re-elected for the fourth time