Danish politicians are rallying to protect sandeel fishing rights for Denmark, as the UK contemplates a ban on fishing the forage stock in its waters
Denmark’s Fisheries Minister, Jacob Jensen, Fisheries Spokesperson Mads Fuglede, and MEP Asger Christensen are rallying to protect sandeel fishing rights for Denmark.
This joint effort by Jensen, Fuglede, and Asger Christensen is aimed at countering potential restrictions on sandeel fishing in UK waters.
The United Kingdom is contemplating a ban on sandeel fishing in its waters, a move that would significantly impact Danish fisheries, holding the majority of the quota. Danish politicians believe it is crucial for Denmark to exert every effort to push back and ensure that both parties adhere to the Brexit agreement reached between the EU and the UK.
From the Danish side, a meeting has taken place with the British Fisheries Minister, where the consequences for Danish fisheries and related industries were emphasised.
Following the meeting, the UK has decided to await new scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) to clarify whether sandeel fishing is genuinely straining ecosystems and the food sources of seabirds. This assessment will determine the validity of the UK’s argument for closing sandeel fishing altogether. Decisions of this nature must be based on a solid scientific foundation.
Simultaneously, Denmark has been pressing for the European Commission to actively pursue the matter with the UK. There is a call for the European Commission to assume a more significant responsibility in this case.
The severe repercussions of Brexit on Danish fisheries and related industries are well-known. Therefore, appreciation is extended for the meeting held in early November between fishermen, representatives of related industries, and the Danish Parliament’s Environment and Food Committee. This meeting armed us with a substantial set of reasoned arguments to safeguard Danish fishing interests.
Brexit has undeniably posed challenges for Danish fishermen. It is imperative that we staunchly assert Danish interests, emphasising that this issue goes beyond sandeel fishing. It involves the UK implementing measures contrary to the Brexit agreement, a development causing deep concern. It is unreasonable for the fishing industry to bear yet another cost of Brexit.
