Appalling Fisheries Deal will have a devastating impact on the Irish Industry.

Appalling Fisheries Deal will have a devastating impact on the Irish Industry. - The Labour Party

George Lawlor TD, Labour Party Spokesperson on Enterprise, Tourism & Employment, has condemned the fisheries deal reached by the European Union last night, labelling it a direct threat to the livelihood of our fishing communities and the future of the Irish fishing industry.

“This deal is nothing short of a betrayal,” Lawlor stated. “It disregards the hard work and dedication of Irish fishermen and women, who have been the backbone of our coastal communities for generations. The concessions made to other EU member states will have a disastrous impact on our fishing fleets, jeopardising jobs and threatening the sustainability of our marine resources. Ireland is an Island nation and coastal countries like my own of Wexford will see the livelihoods of families working in the industry placed under intolerable stress”. 

“Our fishermen are already struggling against rising costs and stringent regulations. The loss of 57,000 tonnes of quota will without doubt have a hugely detrimental impact on the 2,300 jobs in the industry. This deal further undermines their ability to compete and survive,” Lawlor added.

He is calling on the Irish government to take immediate action to protect the interests of Irish fishermen. “We need a robust strategy to support our fishing industry, ensuring that our fishermen have access to sustainable quotas and the resources they need to thrive. The government must stand up for our coastal communities and reject any deal that puts their futures at risk.”

The Labour Party is committed to advocating for a fair and equitable fisheries policy that prioritises the livelihoods of Irish fishermen and the sustainability of our marine environment.