Fish quota talks: Let’s get real this time

THE annual review of fish quotas is due for negotiation shortly. Predictably, the EU is advocating a higher than normal percentage reduction in the total allowable catch.

If precedent is followed, Ireland will be represented at the negotiations by a team led by the junior minister with responsibility for fisheries. The usual charade consists of “tough” negotiations going on through the night and ending in the morning with agreement on catch reductions 2% to 3% less than the figure advocated.

The Irish delegation returns home in triumph, having secured an “increase” in quotas over those originally advocated. The net result of this nonsense is that Ireland, a maritime nation with 23% of the EU’s coastal waters, has now an entitlement to 4% of the EU fish quota.

It is imperative for the forthcoming negotiations that the team representing the country would:

1. Have an understanding of the fishing industry, and

2. Be capable of articulating the justification for an enhanced quota proportionate to our legitimate entitlement.

The manner in which the EU responds will be an indicator of its commitment to equity and fairness, and will signal to the Irish nation how it expects the electorate to respond in the event of a rerun of the Lisbon Treaty referendum.

Mick Callanan

Crookstown

Co Cork