DAERA has today launched a consultation on the development of
fisheries management measures to protect conservation areas
offshore.
The consultation is aimed at organisations, groups, and people
engaged in activities, or have a general interest in the marine
area beyond 12 nautical miles of the coast.
Launching the consultation, Minister Muir said: “Our seas support
livelihoods, communities and a vital fishing industry, and it is
essential that we are proactive in taking action that protects
ecosystems and fish stocks for future generations.
“I recognise the challenges that fishing businesses are facing on
a daily basis, from rising fuel costs and visa restrictions to
the increasing uncertainty created by proposals for offshore
renewable energy and the impacts of climate change on fish
stocks. I acknowledge these realities and recognise the essential
role the fishing industry plays in our coastal economy, cultural
heritage and food security.
“At the same time, action is needed to ensure healthy, productive
marine ecosystems that can continue to support fisheries and
wider societal benefits over the long term. Evidence increasingly
shows that well‑designed and effectively managed protective
measures can allow damaged habitats to recover, increase
resilience to climate change, and support the replenishment of
fish stocks beyond protected areas.”
The introduction of fisheries management measures is intended to
support fishing at sustainable levels while protecting the marine
environment. There have been signs of recovery in marine habitats
in the inshore region after regulatory measures were introduced,
so a similar approach is being proposed for three offshore MPAs
where most of the protected habitats are in ‘unfavourable'
condition. These are the Pisces Reef Complex SAC; South Rigg MCZ
and Queenie Corner MCZ. They are located in the Irish Sea between
Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, spanning 298km2.
In these areas, the main target fishery is Norway Lobster (also
known as the Dublin Bay prawn or Nephrops). Fisheries
management measures are proposed where bottom trawling for these
prawns occurs.
The proposed measures have been developed using a co-design
approach with the stakeholder group Co-Fish: Fisheries and
Conservation Partnership, which was formed in 2023.
Minister Muir added: “The proposals outlined in the consultation
recognise the unfavourable conservation status of these protected
habitats and aim to help these sites achieve their conservation
objectives. They also reinforce Northern Ireland's continued
support for international obligations for clean, healthy, safe,
productive and biologically diverse seas.
“Our shared aim is thriving seas that continue to sustain both
marine life and the communities that rely upon them. I recognise
the importance of your input, whether as individuals or
organisations and I am keen to hear your views to help inform
these fisheries management measures.”
The consultation will remain open for 12 weeks and will close for
responses on 24 August 2026. Download
the consultation document.
Notes to editors:
- This consultation proposes fisheries management measures for
Queenie Corner MCZ, South Rigg MCZ and Pisces Reef Complex SAC.
- The development of fisheries management measures for offshore
MPAs is a target in the Environment Improvement Plan. They have
been developed using a co-design approach with the stakeholder
group Co-Fish: Fisheries and Conservation Partnership, which was
formed in 2023.
