Further restrictions to Queen scallop fishing announced

As of Monday, just one area around the Island will be open for queen scallop fishing.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture confirmed the news in a statement earlier today.

Only East Douglas will remain open - with other areas of the territorial sea will shut to allow stocks to recover.

DEFA says the catch rate in Eastern Douglas has been relatively high - so fishing will be allowed until the rate drops from its current level.

Minister Geoffrey Boot says although the decision wasn't taken lightly, it's been made with future sustainability in mind.