It is essential Irish fisheries concerns are met - Cope


Pat the Cope Gallagher, MEP organised a meeting today in Brussels between Commissioner Joe Borg, the EU Commissioner for Marine Affairs and Fisheries, and the Federation of Irish Fisherman . Speaking after the meeting Pat the Cope said: "We had a very positive exchange of views. I was pleased with the response of the Commissioner to the views raised in relation to total allowable catches and quotas which affect Ireland."

Discussed with the commissioner were key Irish concerns surrounding the Hague Preferences (a long standing agreement giving Ireland additional quotas for certain species). Also discussed were problems surrounding the proposed 50% reduction in the Nephrops (Dublin Bay Prawns) quota for Area VII, ongoing difficulties in relation to Mackerel negotiations, the adoption of a management plan for Horse Mackerel and problems in the northwest for Irish vessels in relation to unacceptable emergency measures. This meeting is in advance of the Fisheries Council meeting on 14th and 15th December.

The attached photograph shows Pat the Cope Gallagher making a presentation to Commissioner Borg in recognition of his work as Commissioner responsible for fisheries over the last five years.