Nine fishermen were added to the official list of lobster harvesters on Friday after the minister responsible altered the selection process.

Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Harry Soares explained he had been approached recently by UBP candidate Kim Swan about concerns of fishermen that drawing lots in secret by ministry officials was unfair.

Many of the 40 licensed commercial fishermen wanting a lobster licence attended a public drawing at the Horticultural Hall at the Botanical Gardens in Paget.

Mr. Soares said that while there was "acrimony'' he asked the fishermen to use the draw as a clean slate for relations with the ministry.

"Obviously, people not selected were disappointed,'' he added. "It impacts their earnings. They have obligations. But it was all done properly.'' He explained that 11 of 20 fishermen were still eligible to harvest lobster for the coming season, which begins next month and ends at the end of March.

Mr. Soares added: "Kim Swan had heard of some concern and approached me. I slept on it and decided we would have a public draw.'' The lucky nine had their names pulled from a hat along with the names of three others who will be alternates.

The 20 licensed lobster fishermen can legally place regulation pots in designated areas.

Mr. Soares said at the end of this season, the ministry will review the numbers and average size of lobsters caught.

He added: "We will be able to ascertain whether we should increase or reduce the number of pots and or lobster fishing licences.''