MEP Maria Walsh facilitated a meeting between key members of the Irish fishing sector and the European Commissioner for Fisheries Costas Kadis in Brussels this week.
Members of the Irish Seafood Alliance, including Fine Gael Senator Manus Boyle, met with Commissioner Kadis and MEP Walsh to discuss the ongoing challenges facing the Irish fishing sector. The meeting was a crucial step in pushing for the fairer rules and quotas needed to protect Ireland’s fishing communities.
MEP Maria Walsh said:
“Protecting Ireland’s fishing sector is one of my top priorities and I was delighted to facilitate a meeting between industry leaders and the Fisheries Commissioner this week. Securing facetime for these leaders with Commissioner Kadis is key to restoring and growing the Irish fishing industry.
“The meeting was productive and positive, with all in attendance stressing our commitment to Europe and the EU. However, the Commissioner also heard of the harsh reality facing our fishing men and women on the ground.
“As was shared during the meeting, Irish export profits are down 82% since 2004, with unfair quotas at the heart of the problem. Brexit compounded the challenges as the industry lost 15% of its quota overnight as part of the EU-UK’s deal.
“Fishing vessels are tied up by St Patrick’s Day and don’t return to the waters until January of the following year. As a result, coastal communities are on their knees. Local sports teams and schools are dying with little hope in sight as young families are forced out of their home towns and villages.
“The Common Fisheries Policy is failing Ireland and our fishing industry, with a drastic and urgent review required. A reform of the current quota sharing arrangements must be at the core of the review, as well as targeted support for the fish processing sector. A stock assessment is also needed, along with a roadmap for the future of the fishing industry.
“The Commissioner took the time to listen to our concerns, and committed to continuing his work with the Irish fishing sector – offering some much needed hope and opportunity for the future of this industry.”