Strengthened protections needed in the fishing sector – Boyle

There needs to be stronger protections for Ireland’s fishing industry and coastal communities, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Fine Gael spokesperson on fisheries and the marine in Seanad Éireann, Senator Manus Boyle, has tabled a motion which highlights the economic, cultural and social importance of the fishing sector to Ireland while also raising concerns around the impact of international agreements and the behaviour of some third-party countries, which continue to ignore scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES).

Senator Boyle said, “Irish people in the fishing sector are facing unprecedented challenges, from quota reductions and rising operations costs to unfair access arrangements. This amendment will stand up for communities, safeguarding resources and ensuring that Ireland is treated as an equal partner in managing stocks.”

The amendment calls on Government to invoke the Hague Preferences at an appropriate time to protect Ireland’s fishing interest and oppose any further concessions in rights that give disproportionate access to Irish waters for non-EU countries.

Senator Boyle is also seeking increased investment in modernisation and safety measures for the Irish fishing fleet and says, “there needs to be targeted supports for small-scale and inshore fishers to ensure there’s a vibrant and viable fishing industry in Ireland for generations to come.”

He concluded by saying investment from Government in ports is welcome but says more needs to be done to defend the rights of the Irish fishing industry.

“We must ensure Ireland’s fishing sector is protected, and its communities are supported, while also managing our waters responsibly for generations to come.”