AQW 30603/17-22

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 07/03/2022
Answered On Date: 27/03/2022
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the progress on regulation for shellfish harvesting, as recommended by the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute.

Answer:

My Department commissioned the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) to investigate potential regulatory measures that would ensure the harvesting of periwinkles in Strangford Lough was within sustainable limits. The study investigated the potential for a minimum landing size and closed seasons, and has made a number of recommendations.

I am currently considering proposals to seek stakeholder views on the recommendations that AFBI have made.