Support Holy Island Fishing And its future
Proposed legislation by Defra will ban fishing in the waters around Holy Island
The future of the Holy Island fishing industry, central to the island’s economy and community, is under immediate threat.
This follows selection of the waters around the island by Defra (the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) as a designated zone for a Highly Protected Marine Area (HPMA) which would mean a complete ban of all fishing.
The fishermen and community of Holy Island strongly oppose this proposed selection because we believe it is misguided and unfair, even based on the criteria Defra have set themselves: to minimise social and economic impacts while maximising ecological gains.

High uncertainty if there would be any substantial ecological gains
The fishing ban would have major economic and social impacts on Holy Island

High uncertainty if there would be any substantial ecological gains
There is a 12 week consultation period on this legislation which ends on 28th September. The fishermen and the organisations representing the island community (Parish Council, Community Development Trust and St Mary's Church) are taking an active part in the consultative process which ends on the 28th September.
Complete Defra's consultation form (for those living on the island or are connected to it): Consultation Form
Respond to our local MP's survey about Holy Island fishing and the proposed HPMA. Respond to our MP
If you would like more information about how to actively support: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Media Coverage: The Guardian Report The Sunday Telegraph Report
Holy Island Press Statement: Our Statement