Market devastated amid Covid-19 and competition
The Manx Fish Producers Organisation says the survival of the Island's scallop fishing industry is under threat.
It comes as the queenie fishing season opened this week, amid a market which has been devastated by the impact of Covid-19, and competition from king scallops caught by UK fisherman at Dogger Bank in the North Sea.
A new system is being used this year, with regional management of the four main fishing areas, each with an overall catch limit of 557 tonnes.
Stock levels are thought to be good at the moment, following an industry-led survey.
It's as scientists from Bangor University were unable to come to the Island to complete the survey, which they normally undertake.
The Island's king scallop season closed on May 31st, with fishermen only given a limited opportunity to fish during lockdown.
Dr Dave Beard of the MFPO says Manx fisherman have seen the price of scallops drop by up to 50%, and are facing stiff competition from other producers.
He's warning the survival of the industry is at stake:
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