“IS&WFO welcome decommissioning package”

The Irish South and West Fishermens Organisation has welcomed Minister Pat "The Cope" Gallagher’s announcement of a new package of support measures for the Irish whitefish fleet. According to Manager Jason Whooley "The introduction of a decommissioning scheme is a welcome development and something we have campaigned for over the past few years. We are aware however, that "the devil is in the detail". We are concerned that a bidding process for entry to this scheme may create problems. A flat rate for tonnage decommissioned will, in our opinion, result in a more equitable scheme and maximise the benefit to the Industry. We also are concerned that the overall budget of approx. €8m will not suffice. It’s possible that a figure of up to treble that amount would be needed."

Mr Whooley added, "We have continually stressed the need for an end to the fire-fighting style of management in the Industry. A long-term vision for the Industry is a necessity. We are pleased to hear the Minister echo these views in his commitment to quality improvement and a strategic review of fleet structure and fishing opportunities. We hope that this review will not focus solely on a narrow economic agenda but will take into account the broad range of factors, which will affect the future sustainability of our fishing communities. Unless we take account of the obvious trends in our sector and plan accordingly in a collective fashion, our constant crisis management approach will continue in future years".