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Scallop fishing changes upsets Scottish government

Island accused of breaching FMA

Changes to scallop fishing licences in Manx Territorial waters haven't been welcomed by the Scottish Government, which says it could invoke the dispute resolution process if the Isle of Man Government doesn't call a halt to the new measures.

The Scottish Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing say they believe the moves breach existing fisheries agreements to the detriment of Scottish fishermen.

Mr Ewing says he's "deeply disappointed and frustrated" that the Manx government wouldn't listen to a number of alternatives being put forward by the Scotland, which they believe would ensure sustainable fishing without causing disadvantage to just one sector of vessels.

He's accused the Island of  failing to share plans or be involved in talks and is urging Manx government representatives to go to Scotland for further discussions.

A statement from the Manx government says it doesn't believe it has breached the Fisheries Management Agreement and is disappointed the Scottish response doesn't seem to take into account the amendments made to the original proposal. It adds it will continue to engage in dialogue with FMA partners to assess the situation and try to find an effective, alternative solution.

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