After hosting a visit to Newlyn by ministers, the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO) has welcomed the commitment given to working in partnership with the industry, recognising the fishing sector’s vital role in shaping marine management.
Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed and Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner both reaffirmed that future decisions on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and broader fisheries management will be based on science and evidence, not assumptions.
‘It’s positive to see both ministers recognise the challenges we face in terms of where we can fish and what we can land, both of which face the threat of catastrophic erosion if ENGOs and wealthy film makers have their way. Both SoS and Minister clearly committed to working with fishermen, not just talking at us. Their return visit next year is a real sign of intent — and we will hold them to their word,’ promised CFPO chairman Paul Trebilcock.
During a roundtable with CFPO members, Ministers stressed seafood’s essential role in national food security, reflecting commitments in the government’s new food strategy that finally recognises fishermen and seafoods role in providing healthy and nutritious protein. They also highlighted the new £360 million UK-wide fund for fisheries and coastal community growth and supported the Cornish Fishing Strategy as well-prepared and ‘investment ready.’
Steve Reed and Daniel Zeichner both committed to a return visit to Cornwall in 12 months to review progress on the issues discussed.
‘Visiting Newlyn again with the Environment Secretary, and hearing directly from fishermen, has been incredibly valuable in understanding the opportunities and challenges facing our fishing communities. The visit reinforces why we must continue to work in genuine partnership with the industry to promote British fish, manage spatial pressures and ensure we fish sustainably so the sector can thrive for generations to come,’ fisheries minister Daniel Zeichner commented.
A focused session led by the CFPO and NFFO presented a detailed map of the Celtic Sea and Western Channel, illustrating Crown Estate areas designated for floating offshore wind development, proposed MPAs restricting bottom-towed fishing, netting and potting, alongside existing cable routes and shipping lanes. It was the first time the Secretary of State had seen such a comprehensive view of all current and planned uses of marine space. He acknowledged the challenges this presented for the fishing industry and how best to achieve a balanced approach to marine planning that supports both environmental goals and sustainable fishing.
‘It was a very welcomed and timely visit given all challenges and opportunities for the Cornish fishing and seafood sector at present. The passion and knowledge of the Cornish fishing industry is second to none and it was clear how much this was appreciated by the Secretary of State and Minister,’ said CFPO CEO Chris Ranford.
‘We welcome their commitment to working with us on improving science and evidence to make future decisions, as well as supporting the key pillars and overall vision of the Cornish fishing strategy. We look forward to them turning words into action.’
