The Irish fishing industry is under threat from a proposed EU cut in quotas, according to Minster for the Marine and Natural Resources, Mr Fahey.
The EU Fisheries Commissioner, Mr Franz Fischler, wants to cut Total Allowable Catches (TACs) of most fish by between 25-55 per cent next year. Mr Fishler has warned of a crisis in the fishing industry if significant cuts for most species are not introduced for next year.
"We can now see the results of too many years of excessive fishing due to the substantial overcapacity of the EU fleet. Too many boats are competing for too few fish," Mr Fishler said.
"If we are serious about securing the future of the European fisheries sector, there is no way around significant reduction of catches and fishing," he added.
But the Minister intends to fight the proposals that he argues favour larger states. Mr Fahey has held talks with his counterparts in Northern Ireland, Britain and Belgium this week in an effort to gather support ahead of next week’s Council of Fisheries Ministers meeting in Brussels.
"The overall impact of these proposals would be to wipe out over 25 per cent of the national whitefish quota compared with 2001. On top of a 33 per cent reduction in total since 1998, this would mean halving available fishing opportunities in 4 years," said Mr Fahey.
"If the vommissioner’s proposals are not modified the Irish fishing industry will face profound difficulties in 2002," he said. The Minister said he recognises the need for cuts to preserve stocks but claims the proposals exceed the advice of EU’s own scientific advisers.
Talks will take place in Brussels next Monday and Tuesday and with a decision expected at the end of the meeting.