Loughs Agency confirm suspension of Native Oyster Fishery in the Foyle

The Loughs Agency has confirmed that the Native Oyster Fishery in the Foyle will be suspended for the next four months.

The closure comes into effect at 6am next Tuesday, October 24, and will remain in place until 6pm on February 29, 2024.

In a statement, the Loughs Agency say that scientific evidence shows that the decision was necessary ‘in order to ensure an acceptable biomass of spawning stock remains in the population for next season’.

They say the decision was made after an analysis of the stock data, direct feedback from licence holders and sampling of the catch by Loughs Agency fishery officers. The information has resulted in an earlier-than-usual suspension of the native oyster fishery.

David Tennyson takes gold at HSK Box Cup

Raphoe Boxing Club's David Tennyson won the lightweight gold in Denmark at the weekend.

“The decision to close the native oyster fishery in the Foyle area at this juncture is not one we took lightly, but one we deemed essential to ensure the continued conservation of oyster stocks,” said Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency CEO.

“We are fully aware of the impact that this suspension will have on our native oyster fishery stakeholders in relation to the fishing of oysters in Lough Foyle.

“However, it is imperative that we take decisions in a science-led approach with the future sustainability of the fishery and the viability of the oyster population in mind.”

Ms McMahon noted that marine scientists have warned that removal of 100 per cent of the stock above the minimum landing size is ‘not sustainable’.

She said: “Removing a large proportion of stock over 80mm this season could have a detrimental impact on future recruitment to the population.

“Our remit as a regulatory body allows us to make informed management decisions such as this in real time, which will help maintain a sustainable fishery for the future.”