January 17th 2007

“Federation of Irish Fishermen Expresses Solidarity and Deepest Sympathy of the Entire Industry at the Tragic Loss of Life”

The Four organisations which comprise FIF, the ISWFPO, IS&EFPO, IFPO and KFO, wish jointly to express the deepest sympathies with the families of the seven men lost in last week's tragic accidents off the South coast and give thanks for the safe recovery of four crewmen from the mfv Honeydew II and the mfv Renegade respectively. The entire fishing community is praying for the recovery of the bodies of those lost.

The Federation wishes to acknowledge the enormous efforts by all those who have participated in the continuing search and rescue operations in often horrendous conditions. We will seek to ensure that all resources will be available for the ongoing recovery operation for as long as necessary.

The numerous expressions of sympathy to those bereaved and indeed to the industry from throughout Ireland, Northern Ireland, France, Scotland and Cornwall, from President McAleese, the Government, opposition and from people far and wide from every walk of life have been a real comfort and support for all involved and are greatly appreciated.

These tragedies have of course brought to the fore the enormous difficulties faced by fishermen in recent times. FIF is determined that these issues will have to be addressed at the highest level and FIF is strongly committed to leaving no stone unturned in doing so, working in unity and with all our fishermen. However, our focus and that of everybody involved just now must be solely be on the search, rescue and recovery operations and on supporting the families of those lost.