Gildernew addresses industry workshop on future management of Irish Sea fish stocks

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA today encouraged the fishing industry to think about alternative approaches to the future management of Irish Sea fish stocks.

The Minister was speaking at a seminar organised by the North West Waters Regional Advisory Council in Belfast, where she advocated an industry which is sustainable, profitable and self-reliant.

Recognising the serious challenges faced by the sector she said: “Given the scientific advice on cod and the impact of the Cod Recovery Plan, we are facing a situation where there will be continued pressure to reduce fishing effort in the Irish Sea. I am very concerned about the economic and social impact on our coastal communities which depend on the fishing sector for their very existence and sustainability.”

Minister Gildernew went on to encourage the industry in developing new management arrangements. She said: “If the outcome of your workshop is proposals which meet the twin objectives of ensuring fish stocks are maintained, and that the industry has a sustainable future, I will be very happy to support such proposals in my discussions with Commissioner Borg. I will also work with my Ministerial colleagues in the south in developing such proposals.”

Minister Gildernew also highlighted the importance of the prawn fishery to the local fleet. She said: "In a situation where it is accepted that the Irish Sea nephrops stock is stable, a recommended cut by the scientists of over 40% is difficult to explain, particularly when it is not supported by the scientists involved in assessing Irish Sea stocks. I will be vigorously resisting the proposed cut in the nephrops quota available to our local fleet for 2010.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Regional Advisory Councils were established as part of the 2002 Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy to enable stakeholders to contribute to the EU policy decision making process.

2. The North West Waters Regional Advisory Council (RAC) was set up in 2005 and includes members from France, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, England, Scotland and Wales, as well as the north and south of Ireland. It covers the sea areas from the west of Scotland, round the coast of Ireland and on the English Channel.

3. Alan McCulla, Chief Executive of the Anglo-North Irish Fish Producers’ Organisation is a member of the North West Waters RAC.

4. The workshop was held at the Headquarters of AFBI in Newforge Lane on 30 September.

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