Government publishes plan for independent fisheries policy

WITH a month to go until a consultation on the future of fishing closes, Welsh fishermen are being urged to have their say on plans to build a prosperous and sustainable UK fishing industry outside of the EU.

The recently published Fisheries White Paper – Sustainable Fisheries for Future Generations’ – is a consultation document setting out the UK Government’s plans to regenerate coastal communities and support future generations of fishermen, while protecting our precious marine environment.

Over 750 fishermen were employed in Wales in 2016. In the same year, Welsh vessels landed 10,000 tonnes of fish worth approximately £22m.

Although elements of fishing policy are devolved in Wales, the White Paper suggests some proposals that will directly benefit the Welsh fleet. These include seeking to move towards a fairer share of fishing opportunities such as quota, controlling access to UK waters and strong commitments to fishing sustainability.

Fisheries Minister George Eustice said: “Wales has a long history in fishing, from its diverse inshore fleet catching crabs and scallops, to its innovative approach to farming rope-grown mussels.

“Leaving the EU creates a sea of opportunity for coastal communities across the whole of the UK, and we will work closely with everyone in Wales who has an interest in this important industry to take advantage of this historic moment.

“Our White Paper consultation is a crucial part of this process and I urge everyone to share their views.”

The UK Government is working closely with the devolved administrations on how best to maintain the overall coherence of the UK’s approach in areas such as compliance with international obligations and managing shared resources sustainably.

Officials from the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Office of the Secretary of State for Wales met members of the Welsh Fishermen’s Association – Cymdeithas Pysgotwyr Cymru – in Aberystwyth last week to gather information from industry as part of the consultation process.

The meeting is one of a programme of visits and meetings across the UK, in which Defra officials are listening to views from catchers, processors, traders, NGOs and those with interest in the seafood sector.

This will feed into developing priorities for future negotiations, future reform and the upcoming Fisheries Bill, which is expected to be introduced in this session of Parliament.

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said: “The Welsh fishing industry is a vibrant and diverse business, which plays a considerable role in our rural economy. It is vital that we listen to industry experts to get the best outcome for all those employed and making a living in the trade in Wales.

“The UK Government is committed to seizing every possible opportunity that arises from leaving the EU, and I would urge all those involved in the fishing and marine industry, the Welsh Government and local authorities participate in the consultation and make their voices heard.”

Those who would like to share their views on proposals outlined in the White Paper are invited to have their say on the Defra website.

The consultation closes on September 12.