The Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation says a UK Fisheries Bill published yesterday confirms the ‘worst fears’ of Irish fishermen.
The bill proposes denying Irish fishermen automatic access to UK waters.
Sean O’Donoghue, CEO of the fishermen’s organisation, says this would have ‘catastrophic ramifications’ for the Irish fishing industry.
He says it’s crucial that in future negotiations, fisheries must remain part of overall trade negotiations between the EU and the UK.
Independent general election candidate for Donegal Thomas Pringle has pleaded with the Irish government to take action and protect the local fishing industry.
The legislation going through the UK Parliament seeks to end automatic EU access to UK fisheries which is claimed would greatly negatively affect Donegal fishermen.
Deputy Pringle says the government must ensure that Donegal fishing rights are not sacrificed at EU negotiations.
