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Fishing Industry

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 May 2017

Thursday, 4 May 2017

Questions (26)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

26. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to safeguard the fishing industry in view of the UK’s decision to leave the EU and the complexities involved in the restructuring of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21063/17]

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Written answers

Fish stocks are a shared resource managed under the Common Fisheries Policy of the EU.  Nearly all of Ireland’s main commercial stocks are shared to some degree with the UK.  In addition, many of our traditional fishing grounds lie within UK waters.  Any change to the existing situation could have severe consequences for our fleets.

Earlier this year, I hosted a dedicated Civic Dialogue on the potential impacts of Brexit for the seafood sector as whole. This was very well attended by stakeholders from across the industry and gave a clear insight into the real dangers that a 'hard' Brexit presents for our fishing communities. 

I will remain in close contact with fisheries stakeholders as the issues develop and work with them to ensure that we are all fully prepared for what are likely to be extremely complex negotiations.  

I am continuing to work closely with my European colleagues to ensure that fisheries remain a top priority in the negotiations to come. Protecting existing shares and access are top priorities for the fishing Member States.  

I will be unequivocal in opposing any dilution of our existing EU quota shares, including protecting the benefit to Ireland of the Hague Preferences, and any limitations on our existing rights of access. 

Brexit negotiations will not be a renegotiation of the CFP. The CFP remains in place and will be up for review from 2019 with any agreed changes due to be concluded by 2022.

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