Farmers want plan for fish farming

A STRATEGY to support a sustainable fish and shellfish farming sector is vital to redress the balance of seafood imports into the European Union, according to the Irish Farmers Association.

IFA Aquaculture executive secretary Richie Flynn told a special hearing by the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee in Brussels that food production and food security is growing in importance.

Health professionals are urging consumers to eat more seafood as a matter of priority to promote the development of the mind and body and prevent modern diseases.

“We see a rise in interest in food that is sustainable, organic, eco-friendly and convenient. All of these factors have contributed to an ever-growing demand from European consumers for more and more quality seafood,” said Mr Flynn.

He said Europe has decades of experience, available waters, the right climate and advanced technology.

EU Aquaculture produces 1.5m tonnes of seafood and supports 80,000 jobs. Yet, the community still imports almost 50% of its seafood needs.

“Aquaculture worldwide is the fastest growing food sector in the world. But here in Europe we are in danger of starving in a land of plenty.

Mr Flynn said the aquaculture sector will not disappoint the European Parliament and Commission if they have the foresight and courage to let it reach its potential.