Newry, Mourne and Down District Council approved a motion calling on the Isle of Man government to reverse visa requirements for foreign crews on Northern Ireland fishing vessels. The rules took effect on 10 February and prevent crews with transit visas or UK Skilled Worker Visas from fishing commercially in Manx waters without sponsorship from an Isle of Man business.

DUP councillor Glyn Hanna from Mournes introduced the motion. He pointed to effects on Northern Ireland vessels fishing inside the Isle of Man 12-mile limit as well as fish processors and the County Down fishing sector. Hanna noted that 70 percent of working vessels in Northern Ireland employ overseas workers from countries such as the Philippines and African nations.

Sinn Fein councillor Michael Rice from Mournes said the rules create obstacles for family-run boats from Kilkeel and Portavogie that operate in Manx waters. Kilkeel Harbour holds Northern Ireland's largest fishing fleet.

SDLP councillor Declan McAteer from Crotlieve secured approval for an amendment to contact the British-Irish Council secretariat in Edinburgh. Alliance councillor Tierna Howie from Rowallane reported that DAERA Minister Andrew Muir holds similar concerns and plans meetings with Isle of Man fisheries and immigration ministers.

The British-Irish Council functions under the Good Friday Agreement to handle cross-jurisdictional issues.