The Irish fishing industry is facing a crisis due to Brexit-related trade rule changes, leading to a 60% decline in production and significant economic losses. The government has promised to explore solutions to address the industry’s concerns.
Irish Fishing Industry in Crisis
The Irish fishing industry is facing a crisis, with production down by over 60% compared to 2023. The decline has been attributed to the significant change in trade rules triggered by Brexit, which has disadvantaged Irish fishers.
Impact of Brexit on Irish Fishing Industry
Following Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union, the EU transferred back 25% of its fishing rights in British waters. This limited Irish vessels in the numbers of fish they were allowed to catch, resulting in an estimated annual loss of €43m (£36m).
Irish Fishing Fleet Reduction
In the past 20 years, the Irish fishing fleet has shrunk from 400 boats down to 120, with about 40 Irish fishing vessels scrapped last year as part of a voluntary government decommissioning plan introduced after Brexit.
Processing Plants in Crisis
The processing plants in Killybegs, Ireland’s largest fishing port, are struggling, with production down more than 60% compared with 2023. This is a significant blow to the industry, as these plants usually work for up to five months each year but were lucky to work six weeks in 2024.
Politicians Address Fishing Industry Concerns
For the first time, Fine Gael’s general election manifesto has addressed key concerns of the fishing industry. The party has promised to explore potential solutions in Brussels to allow Irish fishing to return to sustainability.
Industry Officials Speak Out
Industry officials, such as Brendan Byrne, CEO of the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association, and Patrick Murphy, CEO of the Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation, are speaking out about the crisis facing the industry. They are highlighting the need for politicians to take action to address the issues facing the industry.
Need for Action
The crisis facing the Irish fishing industry requires immediate action. Politicians must take steps to address the issues facing the industry, including renegotiating the EU common fisheries policy (CFP) and securing a fairer agreement for Ireland. The industry needs a sustainable future, and it is up to politicians to deliver this.
