22nd December 2004

South and West welcome Fisheries outcome

The Irish South and West Fishermens Organisation (IS&WFO) have welcomed the outcome of the fishery deal signed in the early hours of the morning in Brussels. Speaking from Brussels, IS&WFO Manager Jason Whooley commented, “In general, we are happy with the quota negotiations, we have succeeded in increasing key stocks in our area. Monkfish is up 20% to it’s highest level in five years, haddock is up 20%, hake is up 9%, while prawns are up 12%”.

Mr. Whooley gave a mixed welcome to the deal secured for Cod Recovery in the Celtic Sea. The Industry proposed plan was for a complete closure to all fishing of 4,500 sq. miles for three months from January 1st 2005. The IS&WFO believe that the plan will greatly enhance not only Cod stocks but also other stocks in the area. However, on Belgium’s insistence, beam trawlers will be allowed to fish in those areas for either January or March. “This amendment to the original proposal has weakened its conservation benefit and will not go down well with other fishermen who have volunteered to stay out of the area. Nonetheless, it is significant that for the first time in EU Fisheries management, an Industry Conservation Proposal has been adopted by the Council of Ministers. Even more significantly, this plan was not deemed necessary by the scientific community, the Industry chose to pursue the matter themselves”.

The Organisation was not as happy with Celtic Sea Herring where the quota remains at 2004 levels. The IS&WFO had been hoping for an increase in this quota given that an Industry led management plan has been in place for the last four years. “The Herring quota, allied to cuts in Mackerel and Horse Mackerel mean that our pelagic fishermen have not fared well. In addition, Herring fishermen will face increased difficulties on Weighing Regulations, this will make 2005 a difficult year for them”.

The Organisation paid a special tribute to Irish Marine Minister Mr. Pat “the cope” Gallagher, “We were delighted with our Minister’s performance at his first December Council, his knowledge of the Industry and overall commitment was critical in securing this deal.