Irish Fish and Exporters Association CEO, Brendan Byrne (left) has called on politicians, “Stop the nonsense and focus on saving our future please”
Irish Fishing Industry Faces Crisis as Brexit Fallout Continues
Brendan Byrne, CEO of the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association, called for an end to political distractions and a renewed focus on addressing the critical issues threatening the industry.
The Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association (IFPEA), Irish Fish Producers Organisation (IFPO), and Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation (KFO) hosted a European Parliament Hustings on Wednesday 22 May, in Killybegs. The event aimed to address the critical challenges facing the Irish fishing industry post-Brexit, has gained widespread publicity since Friday.
In an open letter post-husting, Byrne emphasised that 21% of the employment base in southwest Donegal relies on the fishing industry, and immediate action is necessary to prevent further decline. He calls for immediate support from Europe, the Irish Government, and the general public. He highlighted the resilience of the industry and its potential for survival but stressed that this is contingent on receiving the necessary backing.
In his letter, the CEO of the IFPEA examined the crisis facing the industry and its communities:
Economic Devastation Post-Brexit
The Irish fishing sector has been hit hard by Brexit, losing 25% of the value of its quotas. This amounts to a staggering loss of €224 million in fish by the end of 2025. The repercussions are felt across the entire industry, from the smallest boats to the largest vessels, and from fish retailers to processors of both pelagic and shellfish products. The financial stability of these segments is under serious threat in the current economic climate.
Widespread Impact
The adverse effects extend beyond the fishing industry itself. Upstream and downstream service sectors are also experiencing intense pressure due to the constraints on the overall fishing industry. A report by Bord Bia last January highlighted the significant reduction in production and the subsequent loss of export value. The situation has only worsened since then.
Human Cost
Behind every statistic is a story of personal and generational investment in the fishing industry. Jobs are under threat, incomes are being lost, and the future remains uncertain for many families. The real and tangible consequences of these economic challenges underscore the urgency for action.
Call for Action
The debate in Killybegs was a stark reminder of the challenges facing the Irish fishing industry. It is time to put aside political distractions and address the critical issues at hand to secure the future of this vital sector.
“Stop the nonsense and focus on saving our future,” Byrne concluded, urging all stakeholders to come together and support the industry during this critical time.
