The above consultation was issued by DEFRA on 21st March and closes on Monday 15 May 2017. Here is a link to the consultation: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/marine/lobsters-crawfish/ 

To mark the start of the FLAG, an official launch event will be held between 15.00 and 18.00hrs at The Old Low Light Building, Cliffords Fort, North Shields on 16 March 2017. The launch will be the first meeting of the FLAG, at which the Chair and Vice-Chair will be elected. Members will also meet the FLAG programme officer Simon Baxter, a former harbour master, who will support fishermen and businesses to apply for FLAG funds. The launch will end with the cutting of a special ‘Fish Cake’ to mark the occasion.

The Creel Club, which operates a fish box scheme and supports local fishing in the North East will be at the launch. Further information is available on its website: northumberlandseafood.co.uk/creel-fish-club 

To find out more about the North of Tyne FLAG, or how to apply for FLAG funding, contact Simon Baxter (North of Tyne FLAG programme officer) by emailing: simon.baxter@northumberland.gov.uk or call: 01670 623919.