The Isle of Man is hosting an important international fisheries meeting.

The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea - or ICES - Working group on Crab is meeting in Port Erin this week (to 18th)

ICES is the principal provider of fisheries-science advice for the EU and a highly respected international marine-science organisation.

Its working groups, which cover most commercial species, are expert panels of scientists who meet to discuss scientific and fisheries issues and provide management advice to EU governments.

The first comprehensive research programme for the Island’s crab and lobster fisheries started this year, with the intention of ensuring future sustainability of the industry.

Fisheries Minister Phil Gawne says having the scientists here is great news for the Isle of Man, which is fast becoming a leader in fisheries innovation.