The Isle of Man Queen Scallop Trawl Fishery has entered the full assessment process for Marine Stewardship Council certification.
If successful, Manx ‘Queenies’ will be eligible to display the coveted MSC eco-label showing that they come from a sustainable and well-managed fishery.
The Manx queen scallop fishery originated in the 1960s and has grown steadily since. Queen scallops are now the second most valuable species landed to the Island. Both Manx and non-Manx vessels operate in this fishery using a variety of fishing gears. The assessment will include only the Manx Queenie trawl vessels.
David Callister MLC Member for Agriculture said: ‘I am delighted that the process of full assessment has commenced. This move demonstrates the commitment the Department has to sustainable management of the rich and varied fish stocks found within Manx waters. The Department has worked with Bangor University to start a research and monitoring programme that we hope will demonstrate the sustainable management of the Manx Queenie over the coming months. Achieving MSC certification will be a great boost to fishermen, processors and the reputation of the Isle of Man.’
