merrion street

Minister Coveney today met with the fishing industry and environmental groups to discuss the proposals from the European Commission on fishing opportunities for 2014 in advance of annual negotiations in December. The Programme for Government 2007 – 2012 states that a Sea Fisheries Sustainability Impact Assessment, based on consultation with all major stakeholders, will be brought before the Dáil annually before EU fisheries negotiations commence. 

Today’s meeting was part of that consultative process. The Minister said “It is important all relevant stakeholders have the opportunity to have their say on the proposals from the Commission given their significance for our coastal communities. It is crucial for me that I have a clear understanding of all viewpoints before I enter what will be very tough negotiations in December. I intend to work closely with fellow Member States with shared interests and with Commissioner Damanaki in order to ensure that the TACs and quotas agreed for 2014 are balanced and take account of the scientific advice”.

Submissions can be forwarded electronically via the web portal www.fishingnet.ie until 22 November. All submissions received, subject to legal and editorial considerations, will be published on the website to broaden the debate.