Denmark’s fishing organisations are concerned about the absence of the country’s representatives in EU-Norway fisheries talks
Producer Organisations Express Disappointment Over Denmark’s Non-Participation
Danish fisheries organisations have expressed surprise and concern over Denmark’s absence from recent EU discussions aimed at resolving growing tensions in fisheries cooperation between the EU and Norway.
The Danish Fishery Association Producer Organisation (DFPO) and the Danish Pelagic Producer Organisation (DPPO) are questioning whether Denmark is truly committed to addressing the escalating challenges in this vital sector.
In recent years, Danish fishermen have faced increasing difficulties, particularly with quotas for monkfish and hake in Norwegian waters in the North Sea being unfairly reduced. Additionally, Norway’s unilateral decision to end centuries of free fishing in the Skagerrak, coupled with its ongoing blockade of a coastal state agreement for mackerel, has further strained relations. These issues have left many in Denmark’s fishing industry feeling sidelined.
Kenn Skau Fischer, CEO of the Danish Fisheries Association PO, voiced his concerns, stating, “The EU’s fisheries cooperation with Norway has become significantly more challenging since Brexit. It is deeply regrettable, but this situation underscores the importance of EU member states standing together to protect our fisheries’ interests.”
A Call for Action
The perceived passivity of Danish authorities in these critical discussions has prompted the DPPO and DFPO to formally request an explanation from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. The organisations fear that Denmark’s non-participation could have serious consequences for future fishing opportunities, particularly in the upcoming negotiations on 2025 fishing quotas.
In a joint letter to the Ministry, the two organisations wrote, “This may leave the impression that Denmark does not prioritise the relationship between the EU and Norway, which could impact Denmark’s negotiating position in the upcoming talks on fishing opportunities for 2025.”
Fishermen’s Dependence on Norwegian Waters
The concerns raised by the DFPO and DPPO are echoed in a note from other EU member states, which highlights the critical nature of the EU-Norway fisheries relationship. The note warns that the deteriorating cooperation between the EU and Norway could have severe consequences for EU fishermen, who rely on access to Norwegian waters and on quotas large enough to sustain economically viable fishing operations.
The letter to the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration concludes by seeking clarity on why Denmark was not among the EU member states that reached out to the European Commission and the Council to find solutions to the many unresolved issues in the EU-Norway relationship.
Fischer emphasised Denmark’s crucial role, stating, “Denmark is one of the EU countries with the greatest interest in fisheries cooperation with Norway. We must stand together with other EU nations to seek solutions to the growing number of problems affecting this important partnership.”
The absence of Denmark from these talks has raised concerns about the future of its fishing industry and its ability to navigate the complex post-Brexit landscape, where strong international cooperation is more important than ever. The industry now awaits a response from the Danish government, hoping for a renewed commitment to safeguarding the interests of Danish fisheries.
Source: Fiskertidende