“Joint statement from the four main Irish Fishermens Organisations on Marine Minister John Browne’s announcement of the setting up of a Seafood Strategy Review Group”

“We are united in our support for this initiative from Minister Browne as the development of a Strategic Plan for the fishing industry is something that we have been requesting for a number of years. From the Irish fishing industry’s point of view this is a make-or-break opportunity. The industry faces unprecedented difficulties at present and we hope that this review process can develop a Plan which will allow a viable and sustainable future for fishing. This will not be an easy task and many difficult decisions are going to have to be made with major changes required on all sides. We are pleased that Noel Cawley has agreed to Chair the Review Group as we wanted an independent Chairman with a proven background in a business field unrelated to fishing. We feel that Mr. Cawley will be eminently capable of carrying out this crucial role and will be able to offer a fresh perspective on the way forward for the industry.”

The Irish South and West Fishermens Organisation, the Killybegs Fishermens Organisation, the Irish Fish Producers Organisation and the Irish South and East Fish Producers Organisation, together represent approximately 95% of Irish Fishermen.

30th June 2006