Perspective - Manx Radio

This week, came what could potentially be some big news for some of the Island's fishing fleet. Specifically, queen scallop fishermen, who are being encouraged to branch out and try to catch some different species. The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is inviting queenie catchers to make grant applications towards diversifying, as part of government's 'future fisheries' vision of what it describes as a "sustainable, thriving and well-managed fishing industry providing high-quality seafood products." Funding is being made available for an eight-week application period, to support diversification into new species, gear types and training. The department says grant applications can be made between 23 September and 18 November 2019, therefore lying between the two main fishing seasons for queen scallops and king scallops. All qualifying vessel owners, which are those licensed to fish locally for queen scallop, were sent an application form. Support of up to 80% towards eligible costs will b