One-off payment for eel fishers after algae crisis blights season

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has announced £100K of financial assistance for Lough Neagh Brown Eel Fishers who have been impacted by the suspension of the 2025 season due to blue-green algae on Lough Neagh.

Much like the previous Covid support scheme for Lough Neagh Fisheries, payments will be equal to 50% of the annual income foregone because of the closure of the fishery.

Due to the number of vessels that have left the industry in the past four years, the financial assistance offered will be based on the value of landings of brown eels during the 2024 season only.

To be eligible, applicants must have met the minimum level of brown eel landings in 2024 (£1,000) with the vessel issued with a license to fish in Lough Neagh from DAERA and a permit from the Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Cooperative.

Minister Muir said: “Our historic Eel Fishing Sector is at a critical juncture as it adjusts to the reality of recurring blue-green algae blooms at Lough Neagh and other fishery issues that may have implications for established markets and future seasons operations. I am pleased that we have been able to offer support and my officials are moving to get this financial assistance to the industry at this difficult time.

“This one-off payment will allow the sector to consider how it will adapt in subsequent years to the challenges it faces, and I would encourage them to use this time to identify new markets and introduce measures to improve the management of eel stocks. Financial assistance will also assist with maintaining the fleet’s vessels and other associated costs.

“The situation impacting the Brown Eel Fishers has been a stark reminder of the human cost of the Lough Neagh crisis, and we must collectively work to turn the tide on water pollution in Northern Ireland.”

The Department will write to eligible stakeholders in early January to seek applications.

Sinn Féin MLA Declan Kearney said: “The news that Lough Neagh eel fishermen will be eligible for financial assistance is to be welcomed.

“For the past two years I have pressed for suitable support for eel fishermen whose livelihoods have been decimated due to the ongoing environmental crisis on Lough Neagh.

“The termination of eel fishing for the 2025 season was a stark example of the devastating impact the crisis is having on livelihoods and economic activity along the lough shore.

“The Minister and his department must work collaboratively and robustly with the eel fishermen to reach a sustainable solution that rebuilds the commercial fishing industry on the lough.

“Sinn Féin will continue to press for urgent measures to restore Lough Neagh and protect the livelihoods of those who rely on it.”