Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland South, Kathleen Funchion, has said the government must match the ambition of our coastal and fishing communities in Wexford, Wicklow, Waterford, Cork, Limerick, Kerry and Clare if their full potential is to be realised. 

Speaking from Brussels after meeting with representatives from the Irish fishing and coastal communities, Funchion said:

“Ireland South has some of the richest fishing grounds in Europe and the ambition and drive of our coastal and fishing communities is itself a national resource. 

“The government must match this ambition and drive if we are to harness the full potential of these communities.

“Unfortunately, thus far the government has failed in this regard, and Irish fishermen have been badly let down by successive Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael governments. 

“One practical way the government could help our coastal and fishing communities in Wexford, Wicklow, Waterford, Cork, Limerick, Kerry and Clare is by examining additional opportunities for them and by demanding for a fair share of the fish in our waters.

“We in Sinn Féin are committed to working with our coastal and fishing communities in order to assist them in delivering a sustainable sector for future generations.”