The Seafood Ireland alliance has reiterated its call for a comprehensive review of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), particularly to secure a fairer quota allocation for Ireland. This call was made directly to EU Fisheries Commissioner Costas Kadis during an in-person meeting in Castletownbere.
The high-level meeting was also attended by EU Director-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) Fabrizio Donatella, Ireland’s Minister for the Marine Timmy Dooley TD and assistant secretary general at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) Sinéad McSharry.
Aodh O Donnell of the Irish Fish Producers Organisation (IFPO) praised the Commissioner’s energy and commitment, and the professionalism of his team.
‘We were encouraged by the level of engagement from both the Commissioner and the Minister,’ he said.
‘However, the CFP – now in its 50th year – remains outdated and inequitable. Ireland continues to bear a disproportionate share of quota transfers under EU-UK agreements, with 40% of the value of these transfers coming from Irish quotas alone. This imbalance must be urgently addressed.’
Brendan Byrne of the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association (IFPEA) noted that the meeting facilitated a frank and constructive dialogue.
‘To have this calibre of engagement – so many key decision-makers in one room – marks a significant step forward for Irish fisheries. It gives us a platform to shape future policy’ he commented.
Dominic Rihan of the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation (KFO) highlighted the encouraging tone of the discussions.
‘Commissioner Kadis has committed to sustained engagement with the sector. We also welcome the proactive stance of Minister Dooley, who has already brought some of our concerns to the Commissioner’s attention. That kind of direct advocacy is vital.’
Patrick Murphy of the Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation (IS&WFPO) said the delegation raised another critical issue during the meeting – the urgent need for fleet modernisation.
‘We called for specific ring-fenced funding under the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) to modernise and renew our fleet. Such investment would enhance the sustainability and resilience of the Irish fishing sector,’ he said.
John Lynch of the Irish South and East Fish Producers Organisation (IS&EFPO) emphasised a renewed sense of momentum.
‘We feel more confident that, through continued collaboration with both the Commissioner’s and the Minister’s teams, we can build a stronger future for Irish fishing. Today’s meeting shows what can be achieved when all sides come together with a shared commitment to progress.’
