Fishing visa rules could prove detrimental warns industry boss

Regulations imposed on foreign workers in Manx waters

The chief executive of the Manx Fish Producers Organisation believes any visa regulations imposed on foreign workers operating in the Island's 12-mile limit could prove detrimental to the Isle of Man.

It's understood the Immigration Service is now implementing the rules for the first time even though they were brought in in 2021.

With many UK boats employing personnel who need visas Dr David Beard says the local fish producing industry could suffer:

Dr Beard's Northern Irish counterpart, Dr Lynn Gilmore, told Manx Radio she and her colleagues were surprised when they were told about the regulations last month - see HERE.

The Northern Ireland Fish Producers Organisation along with a number of political figures in the province are seeking to resolve this issue with the Island's immigration service.

Manx Radio has contacted the Isle of Man Government and the Immigration Service and is waiting for a response.