NI Fisheries Minister Michelle Gildernew, along with Executive colleague Culture Minister Edwin Potts, met with the Republic's Energy Minister yesterday, for a North/South ministerial sector meeting, at Dublin Castle.

Ms Gildernew welcomed the chance to meet with her Irish ministerial counterpart, Eamon Ryan, on the subject of aquaculture and marine.

The delegates came together to discuss operational issues affecting the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission, which is one of six North/South bodies, set-up by the Good Friday Agreement.

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Following the talks, Minister Gildernew said: "Today's meeting is another important step towards enhancing fishing and marine infrastructure within the Foyle and Carlingford Areas. Since our last meeting in November, we have made steady progress and have been able to ensure that hardship payments were made to those commercial salmon fishermen who gave up their fishing licences within the Foyle Area."

"I was very interested to hear about the continued good work of the Loughs Agency, and to talk through current issues and its plans for the future. I am very hopeful for the future of the sector, and the opportunities for aquaculture in particular. Together with my NSMC Ministerial colleagues I will play my part in assisting its future development and growth," the Minister added.

A presentation on the proposed development of the aquaculture and wild shellfisheries, within the Foyle and Carlingford areas, was provided to the Ministers by the Loughs Agency.

The Agency also brought forward suggested regulation, which will help the organisation manage and protect resources in the two areas.

(PR/JM)