Consultation on a proposal to prohibit sea fishing within two non-disturbance zones in Strangford Lough

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is proposing to make a statutory rule to prohibit sea fishing by any means within two "Non Disturbance" zones in Strangford Lough to protect the Modiolus modiolus (horse mussel) biogenic reefs in the lough.

The Modiolus modiolus reefs are not in favourable conservation status in Strangford Lough and a Modiolus Restoration plan has been agreed with the European Commission.

Comments on the proposals are welcome and must be made by 15th February 2008 to Paddy Savage at:-

patrick.savage@dardni.gov.uk  or by post to

Paddy Savage
Fisheries Division
Room 427
Dundonald House
Upper Newtownards Road
BELFAST
BT4 3SB

Tel 028 9037 8331

Fax 028 9037 8323