Irish fish exports reached a record high of £252 million for 1996, according to new figures released by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), the fisheries board.

The main contributors to the 18 per cent increase was the pelagic sector, according to BIM. EU markets absorbed 71 per cent of Irish fish exports in 1996, with the main markets located in France, Spain, Britain and Germany.

BIM has made three new appointments to its senior management team. Mr Enda Boland has been appointed deputy chief executive, with immediate effect.

Mr Donal Maguire has been appointed development manager and Mr Philip Doherty has been appointed to the position of marine technical executive in its Fisheries Development Division.