The government has been urged to set funding aside for the Fisheries and Marine sector as the UK prepares to leave the EU on October 31.
The calls come from Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Fisheries and the Marine, Pat the Cope Gallagher, who says funding should be set aside for the sector similar to any dedicated funding for other indigenous sectors in the Budget ahead of Brexit.
He said: “Ahead of the next budget there is an indication funding will be ring-fenced for certain sectors such as beef. It is imperative the Fisheries and Marine sector is included in any funding.
“It is self-evident to everyone that the Marine Sector are not being given recognition when it comes to contingency planning and preparedness for the United Kingdom leaving the EU.
“We have an obligation to protect the sector. 60% of mackerel and 40% of Nephrops are caught within UK waters. It is vital that this sector is protected.
“The government must protect this sector. The provision of a mitigation fund in the forthcoming budget has to be considered,” concluded Deputy Gallagher.
