We will reopen the North Sea sole fishery at 00.01 hours on 26 August 2010.
The fishery was closed in July 2010 and, recognising the importance of this fishery to the industry, our quota managers have worked hard to reopen by negotiating quota swaps with other countries. In particular, we have successfully secured swaps from the Netherlands and Germany.
The fishery will be initially open with a monthly catch limit of 250 kg, including the remainder of August. We will post weekly updates on our website to advise on the ongoing position.
Licence variations will be issued by post as standard practice and must be received before any fishing begins.
We are holding meetings this week in the South East with representatives of the fishing industry to explore the impact of fishery closures on the industry.
