Committee to advise on Manx sea protection

A new committee has been tasked with finding ways to protect the marine environment without damaging the Isle of Man's fishing industry.

The area under the spotlight lies off the south coast near Port St Mary.

The group has been asked to report back to government before the beginning of the scallop season in November.

Fisheries minister Phil Gawne said he wants to bring in "sensible" protection measures in the areas around Carrick Bay and Perwick Bay.

The committee will include two representatives of the scallop industry, two crab and lobster fishermen, a diver, an angler and a representative of the Manx Wildlife Trust.