The Cornish Fish Producers Organisation welcomed newly appointed fisheries minister Stephen Morgan MP to Newlyn this week for a packed visit showcasing the diversity and importance of Cornwall’s fishing and seafood industry.
Hosted by the CFPO with the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations, the visit brought together fishermen, seafood businesses, young industry representatives and senior Defra and MMO officials and local MP Andrew George. Taking place shortly after changes in Government leadership, the visit provided an important early opportunity to reset the political focus on fishing and set out a stronger vision for supporting the sector.
‘It has been invaluable to spend time on Newlyn’s quayside and hear directly from those who work here. You can see straight away how central fishing is to life here, not just for those out at sea but for the wider community, merchants, processors and restaurants that all depend on the port’s success,’ Stephen Morgan commented.
‘I will make sure the voices I’ve heard today help to shape a future where Newlyn’s fleet can continue to thrive.’
The programme began with a seafood dinner with industry representatives, followed by a 5AM visit to Newlyn Fish Market.
The Minister met businesses from across the seafood supply chain, including buyers, processors, shellfish merchants and the hospitality sector. These discussions demonstrated the quality and diversity of the seafood produced by the Cornish fleet, the work underway to grow domestic markets and the strong links between fishing, tourism and hospitality.
They also highlighted the importance of delivering an effective UK EU SPS agreement to streamline exports, alongside continued efforts to increase demand for Cornish seafood within the UK. Back on the quayside, representatives of the Young Fishermen Network presented the YFN manifesto and explained the work being undertaken to recruit, retain and support the next generation of fishermen.
The programme concluded with a roundtable at the CFPO offices. Discussions focused on progress in delivering the Cornish Fishing Strategy, underpinned by the True Value of Seafood to Cornwall report; the need to reset marine spatial prioritisation so fishing can remain viable amid growing pressures on marine space; the impact of high fuel costs and the case for government support, particularly where neighbouring EU fleets are benefiting from financial assistance; and ensuring the new Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund provides targeted support for fishing businesses and coastal communities as the fund takes shape in the next financial year.
‘Cornwall is one of the best places in the country to understand the full net to plate story. In a short visit, the Minister saw fish being landed, sold, processed and served, while meeting the people whose work supports jobs, food security and thriving coastal communities,’ commented CFPO chief executive Chris Ranford.
‘Cornwall has a diverse fleet, outstanding seafood and a clear strategy for the future. We now need strong political leadership, fair marine planning and investment that reaches fishing businesses and coastal communities.’
‘With new political leadership in place, there is a real opportunity to reset the Government’s approach to fishing. The industry needs policies that protect space to fish, support business viability and recognise fishing as an essential part of the UK’s food security and coastal economy,’ added NFFO chief executive Mike Cohen. ‘The NFFO looks forward to working constructively with the Minister to achieve that.’
