McCarthy says fish quota increases will create and sustain local jobs
Issued : Monday 19 December, 2011
Labour TD for Cork South-West Michael McCarthy has warmly welcomed the successful outcome of the fisheries talks in Brussels, stating that it will create many jobs in local communities the length and breadth of Ireland.
Deputy McCarthy said: "News that there are to be increased fish quotas for Celtic sea herring, tuna, boarfish and haddock is extremely positive because it will revitalise fishing activity in coastal communities around the country, including Cork South-West. Minister Coveney is to be commended for securing these increases at quota negotiations in Brussels, and in particular for negotiating the re-opening of the prawn fishery for the Irish Sea and the Porcupine Bank. The deal is valued at around €250 million and will not only create many new jobs, but sustain existing ones too. Such jobs will be created on the boats themselves and also in onshore industries such as fish processing.
The measures agreed to represent a significant difference from the initial proposals that were put forward, which shows that Ireland can still be an influential voice and secure wins for itself at the European negotiating table. There is still considerable way to go in other areas such as monkfish and skate but we are now in a strong position going forward and will continue to keep a watchful eye on these areas.
The fishing industry is key to Ireland’s economic wealth and this latest development ensures that it will be to the forefront of the recovery process. Ireland has the third-largest sea area in the EU and the largest maritime area to land mass, so it is high time we began exploiting its value and recognising the critical role local fishing industries play in job creation."
