Jellyfish attack destroys salmon
Pastor Dale Morgan
*Jellyfish attack destroys salmon*
The density of jellyfish stopped workers from reaching cages
A jellyfish invasion has wiped out Northern Ireland's only salmon farm,
killing more than 100,000 fish.
A Northern Salmon spokesman said last week's attack could cost more than
£1m.
Billions of small jellyfish, known as Mauve Stingers, flooded into the
cages about a mile into the Irish Sea, off Glenarm Bay and Cushendun.
The jellyfish covered an area of up to 10 square miles and a depth of 35
feet. Rescuers tried to reach the cages but the density of fish made it
impossible.
Managing director John Russell said he had never seen anything like this
in 30 years in the business.
Jellyfish in a jar
It could take at least two years for the firm to recover
"The sea was red with these jellyfish and there was nothing we could do
about, it, absolutely nothing," he said.
"It's a disaster for this company - you cannot legislate for something
like this."
He says the firm could take at least two years to recover.
The company has some high-profile clients, with Irish chef Richard
Corrigan serving Glenarm salmon to the Queen on her 80th birthday last
year as part of the BBC's Great British Menu programme.
The Department of Agriculture's fisheries division has carried out a
full investigation, and talks with NI Agriculture Minister Michelle
Gildernew have taken place to try and rescue the farm and save the jobs
of 12 staff.