James McKinley, of Greencastle, County Donegal, appeared in Court yesterday, Wednesday 16th March, and admitted fishing for king scallops in a closed area off the Island’s west coast two days earlier.
He was fined ?5,000 with ?50 costs.
Deputy High Bailliff Jayne Hughes confirmed that a breach of the regulations was a serious offence carrying a maximum fine of ?50,000. However, credit was given for the fact he co-operated with fisheries officers and had no previous convictions.
Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, Richard Ronan MHK said: ‘Regulations that determine where vessels can fish are in place for a good reason. Parts of the Island’s territorial seas are closed to allow stocks to recover, in line with scientific advice.
‘The sea fishing industry is worth ?13 million to the Island’s economy and it is carefully managed to ensure it isn’t overfished, with the resulting damaging effect on future catches.
‘I hope this latest prosecution sends out the message that we will continue to be vigilant and take a robust approach against anyone we catch breaching regulations.’
Researching your Manx family history can be a very interesting and rewarding hobby. Trace your roots in the Isle of Man with our helpful of guide.
