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EU-Norway Fisheries Commission talks end without an agreement being reached on fishing opportunities for 2023
Fisheries Commission negotiations between the EU and Norway have ended without an agreement being reached on fishing opportunities for 2023.
The main reason being the failure to reach an agreement has been the Norwegian’s request to access blue whiting stocks in the Irish EEZ, an issue that the Irish fishing industry representatives have called a redline issue.
Irish fishery representatives in Brussels today were thankful to the European Commission for standing firm on the issue of access with Brendan Byrne from the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association saying:
“Fishery talks conclude today without agreement. Additional access to Irish waters by third countries still a major obstacle to agreement. Irish Government are thankfully taking a resolute position, Sunday will see the commencement of the annual fishery council talks. It is essential that we maintain our position and seek a fair deal for all our fishing industry.”
This sentiment was echoed by his colleague Aodh O’Donnell, Chief Executive of the IFPO, who was also in Brussels during the negotiations. He said:
“On behalf of the Irish Seafood Sector, we commend the EU for standing firm this week on Norway’s request for additional unfettered access to Irish Waters. We urge the Commission and Minister for the Marine to maintain a firm line to deliver a reasonable and meaningful outcome for Ireland. Our waters are an asset that require careful management and third country access must be on the basis of reciprocity. No deal is better than a bad deal…we urge that Ireland is supported coherently at EU level to turn the tide and support vital coastal communities.”
by Oliver McBride