The 18% fish quota in our territorial waters is a travesty of justice

YOUR report, “Ports are open for business,” (Irish Examiner, 05/07/2011) evokes a mixed reaction.

The prospect of jobs being created in handling the additional landings is welcome, in this era of mass unemployment. Our reputation as “good Europeans” is enhanced by offering our French neighbours the opportunity to reduce the time and fuel costs involved, in having to land their catches, at their home ports.

However, the sad reality that Irish fishermen are entitled to only 18% of the available fish quota in our territorial waters is a travesty of justice. The surrendering of sovereignty over one of our prized assets is tragic and unacceptable. A fishing quota commensurate with our legitimate entitlement would give a massive boost to the Irish economy by ensuring the creation of hundreds of sustainable jobs, not only in fishing operations but in the spin-off industries.