Cod stocks inIrish Sea expectedto collapse further

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ire ... 17742.html

MARINE ENVIRONMENT: COD STOCKS in the Irish Sea are now considered "to be in a state of collapse" and are expected to decline further in 2008, the EPA examination of estuarine and coastal waters has warned.

Overall, many commercially-important fish stocks in Irish waters are "heavily overexploited and in decline," while many species, as much as 75 per cent, are now being harvested outside safe biological limits, according to the EPA.

Given the "perilous state" of cod stocks in Irish waters, the EPA said it is likely that severe measures, such as multi-area closures in certain areas will be required to ensure the long-term sustainability of these stocks.

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I would well believe it! Cod have been very scarce down this neck of the woods all summer. You would expect a showing around now as the fish begin to move inshore and up the river Lee. Hopefully not, but it looks bad for the coming winter.