Common fishing policy could create greater revenue opportunities here

IRISH fishing could generate greater revenue with more regional control under the new Common Fishing Policy, according to the Federation of Irish Fishermen (FIF).

The FIF’s analysis of fishing in Killybegs outlines measures that could create 300 to 400 jobs in Donegal alone. The numbers could rise tenfold if scaled up across Clogherhead, Howth, Dunmore East, Rossaveal, Castletownbere and every other fishing stronghold.

European demand for fish is expected to reach 40 million tons by 2030. The EU imports 70% of the 12 million tons of fish it consumes annually, valued at €60 billion. A new report by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has unveiled growing global awareness of the nutritional benefits of fish, and predicts a further growth in demand, but also warns against over-fishing.