Shellfish catches devastated by Ophelia

Fishermen dealing in crab, lobster, and shrimp have appealed for financial assistance. They claim their autumn and winter catch prospects have been devastated by Hurricane Ophelia.

Fishing vessels licensed to catch crab and shrimp, from Courtmacsherry to Baltimore, in West Cork, and also up along the Wild Atlantic Way and in the south-east, suffered huge damage to their gear, specifically the pots dropped out at sea for extended periods.

One major fish processor, Castletownbere-based Shellfish De La Mer, said its supply has been seriously impacted by the hurricane and said there would be a shortage of shellfish for buyers, including hotels and restaurants, this Christmas.