Why was the Lough Neagh eel fishing season abandoned in 2025?

The 2025 eel fishing season on Lough Neagh was abandoned due to low fat content in the catch, which did not meet the standards of usual customers.

What is the value of the new financial scheme for Lough Neagh fishermen?

A new financial scheme of £100,000 has been announced to support fishermen on Lough Neagh.

How will the Lough Neagh support package be calculated?

Payments will be based on brown eels landed during the 2024 season, with an eligibility criterion of at least £1000 worth.

Home / Business and Economy / Lough Neagh Fishermen Face Crisis as Support Package Criticized

Lough Neagh Fishermen Face Crisis as Support Package Criticized

20 Dec

•

Summary

Fishermen deem £100,000 aid insufficient for profound losses.
The eel-fishing season was abandoned for the first time in memory.
Aid is based on 2024 earnings, ignoring prior environmental impacts.

Lough Neagh Fishermen Face Crisis as Support Package Criticized

Lough Neagh's eel fishermen have voiced strong objections to a £100,000 financial support scheme, with a seventh-generation fisherman calling for its urgent review. The package was announced after the 2025 eel-fishing season was abandoned, an unprecedented event for the community. Fishermen feel the aid does not reflect the severe economic hardship and loss experienced.

Payments are to be calculated based on brown eels landed in the 2024 season. However, critics argue this baseline ignores the negative impact of the 2023 algal bloom and the overall decline in earnings. This approach has led to feelings that the industry, which represents a generational way of life, is not being taken seriously amidst an ecological and financial catastrophe.