The Leader of Plymouth City Council has issued an urgent appeal to the Devon and Severn Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) to address a critical issue threatening the livelihoods of the fishing community in Plymouth.
Local fishermen in Devon are grappling with stringent regulations that mandate escape holes in crab pots. These escape holes are allowing octopus to enter, devour the crabs, and leave, resulting in empty pots and no catch for the day. This unique regulation to Devon is placing local fishermen at a significant disadvantage compared to their Cornish counterparts.
The Leader of Plymouth City Council is advocating for an immediate, temporary amendment to remove the escape hole requirement in crab pots. This change would enable fishermen to catch and sell octopus, offering much-needed relief during these challenging times.
Councillor Tudor Evans, who has written to IFCA, said: "Our local fishermen are facing an incredibly tough time. The current regulations are not just impractical; they are devastating. These escape holes are allowing octopus to feast on the crabs, leaving our hardworking fishermen with nothing to show for their efforts.
"We urgently need IFCA to amend this directive and temporarily remove the escape hole requirement. This will allow our fishermen to catch and sell octopus, providing them with a crucial source of income. Once the octopus population stabilises, we can reinstate the escape hole requirement. But for now, this change is essential to support the livelihoods of our local fishing community and ensure they can continue to sustain their families."