British Brexit Bill shows need to keep Leo and Simon at the helm – Creed

The Irish fishing industry faces crisis unless the best team is in place to protect our fishing interests during the next phase of the Brexit negotiations, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine Michael Creed has warned.

In light of the introduction today of the UK Fisheries Bill, Minister Creed said it is absolutely critical that EU continues to show unity on fisheries issues, working with lead negotiators to deliver good outcome for fisheries.

“Around 200,000 people are employed in jobs directly linked to our exports to the UK,” Minister Creed said.

“It is absolutely essential that we do everything we can to protect these jobs and other coastal communities that rely on fishing for their livelihood.

“During the first phase of the Brexit process our team, led by the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Tánaiste Simon Coveney worked hand in glove with our fishing sector to ensure a satisfactory outcome for our industry.

“But Brexit is only at half time and will dominate the next year.

“Therefore, as we approach this election, people should ask themselves ‘Who you trust to protect our fishing interests? Who is best placed to represent your concerns?”

Minister Creed said that the inclusion of a provision in the agreed Political Declaration between the UK & the EU ensures that fishing interests are linked to the broader Trade Agreement, therefore ensuring that Ireland’s fishing interests are not in a disadvantaged position entering into the next phase.

The Cork North West TD said that this was unanimously welcomed by representatives from the Irish Fishing Producer Organisations as the best possible outcome.

He added:

“The next crucially important step is the negotiating mandate.

“As Minister with responsibility for the marine I have worked closely with European colleagues, especially those from the group of eight coastal Member States whose fisheries are potentially most impacted by the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, to ensure there is a strong understanding of Irish concerns and a unity of purpose across the EU on fisheries issues.

“The introduction of the UK Fisheries Bill today is a stark reminder that Brexit discussions are far from over. For the fisheries sector, this is only half-time.”

On average, 34% of Irish landings by volume are taken from UK waters. For some of our most important stocks (Mackerel (64%), Prawns (42 %) the figures are even higher. The stakes are high for our fisheries communities and negotiations over the coming months are really important.

Minister Creed concluded:

“Now as the UK embarks as being an Independent Coastal State outside of the EU Common Fisheries Policy it is important that the next Government can hit the ground running on behalf of our fishing sector. Now is not the time to put the hard-fought gains in the Political Declaration at risk. Fine Gael will put Irish quota share and access at the top of our agenda in Government as Brexit negotiations continue.”