Fishing quota restrictions are difficult to be approved

The European Commission’s position on managing cod stocks has moved closer to Ireland’s interests, b…

The European Commission’s position on managing cod stocks has moved closer to Ireland’s interests, but negotiations on fishing quota restrictions are proving more difficult, according to Marine Minister Simon Coveney.

Mr Coveney is in Brussels attending what he describes as "one of the most difficult Fisheries Councils in years".

The talks relate to setting agreed TAC (Total Allowable Catch) and fishing quota levels for EU member states.

Ireland’s priorities will focus on the TACs and quotas for prawns, haddock, hake, monkfish, boarfish and megrim.

"I put forward what I believe is a strong case respecting the scientific information available on all the key stocks of interest to Ireland where we have a difference of view to the commission."

It is estimated current proposals on 2013 fishing opportunities for white fish would reduce income to the Irish seafood industry by €53m, with resultant negative impacts on between 450-550 full and part time jobs.

"It is my firm and consistent belief that the science should be respected when determining fishing opportunities.

However, it is also my contention that the commission’s application of the scientific advice is inappropriate in many cases.

I have outlined a more balanced, but sustainable approach, considering the interests of both the fish stocks and our fishermen, with a view to maintaining a sustainable and economically viable industry in 2013".

The commission proposal could result in a net reduction in quotas for the Irish whitefish and prawn fishing industry of 21% by volume.

In financial terms, this would amount to a direct income reduction, for the primary producers, the fishermen, of €16.9m and the full cost (direct and indirect) when the effects on fish factories and others are factored in are in the order of €53m with estimated significant negative impacts for between 450-550 full and part time jobs.

For some stocks such as the very important prawn stock, rather than the 12% cut proposed, Ireland considers that an increase is justified. However, Mr Coveney said it will be difficult to reverse the commission’s proposal.

Similarly Ireland does not agree that the proposed 55% cut in the haddock quota in the Celtic Sea is justified as this may lead to increased discarding of fish at sea.

The proposed 32% cut in hake, the 20% cut in monkfish, the 48% cut in haddock in the north west and the 40% cut in megrim in the north west are also too severe and not justified.

On the resumption of the negotiations, the minister went on to say: "I expect these talks to go on long into the night tonight, with frank and robust exchanges on both sides.

The indications are that the commission is intent on maintaining its rigid stand, making delivery of a better package for Ireland extremely difficult".

The minister also referred to Fisheries Committee of the European Parliament vote on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy yesterday, saying: "I welcome the vote on the reform of the CFP, it provides for positive momentum on the reform coming in to the Irish presidency where we hope to bring this process to a conclusion by Jun 2013."