Story perspectives

Lough Neagh Eel Fishery Barred, 25-Tonne Quota, Aid Planned

7/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Lough Neagh eel fishery will be barred from catching yellow eels 2026-2028, limiting the quota to 25 tonnes of silver eels.
Daera is drafting a financial assistance scheme for permit holders while Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir announced a temporary cessation scheme and support measures for fishers.
Scientists say eel recruitment fell from 14-16 million juveniles in the 1980s to over 200,000 now because of climate change, hydropower, pollution, parasites and overfishing.

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Story summary

The Lough Neagh eel fishery will be barred from catching yellow eels 2026-2028, limiting the quota to 25 tonnes of silver eels.
Daera is drafting a financial assistance scheme for permit holders while Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir announced a temporary cessation scheme and support measures for fishers.
Scientists say eel recruitment fell from 14-16 million juveniles in the 1980s to over 200,000 now because of climate change, hydropower, pollution, parasites and overfishing.