The cabinet secretary for the Environment and Rural Affairs has announced new management measures for the Scallop fishery in Cardigan Bay following an extensive consultation.
Although the news has been welcomed by the majority of the industry, others believed the decision to restart fishing in a protected area would be destructive and not support sustainable fisheries.
The Welsh government gave the go-ahead for scallop fishing in Cardigan Bay following a two-year programme of wide-ranging research by Bangor University in collaboration with the industry.
Lesley Griffiths, cabinet secretary, said: “It is clear a lot of people care deeply about our marine environment and the species that live there.”
“In making this decision I have taken this into account, as well as very carefully considering all 5,500 responses to the consultation alongside the further scientific evidence to help achieve a balance within Cardigan Bay.”
The study found that fishing activity is possible, within specific areas, with no adverse impact on the Special Area of Conservation.
Two further independent scientific peer reviews were also carried out and concluded this to be of robust and high scientific merit.
Ms Griffiths added: “Based on this and the fact no new evidence was produced to suggest this fishery would have an impact on the protected features within the Bay, I have decided we should not stand in the way of economic activity and I will continue with new legislation to introduce a flexible permit scheme within Cardigan Bay.”
The scheme includes careful management of this fishery, which will apply appropriate condition to maximise the fishery and protect the site features at all time.
Despite the decision seeming positive news to most in the industry, Lolo Williams, TV presenter and naturalist, posted on Facebook disagreeing with the decision.
He believes it will open the door for ploughing the sea bed on an industrial scale.
The post read: “I’m dismayed by not surprised at this bunch of worthless parasites has, once again, supported the destruction of an internationally important wildlife site.”
“I am appalled that the Welsh government, who are supposed to have sustainability at the heart of their work can contemplate opening up a protected area to such a destructive fishing method.”
