Pearson pledges to defend fishing interests

Direct rule agriculture minister Ian Pearson has told representatives of the Northern Ireland fishing industry that he "will work tirelessly" to defend the north's interests in EC negotiations.

During their meeting in Belfast today, the local fisheries industry leaders told the minister of their concerns about the state of the industry, including recent scientific reports on cod stocks.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Pearson said: "I assured them that I will work tirelessly to advance the interests of the industry before and during the tough negotiations which will take place in the December Fisheries Council, on important issues such as the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, and on stock management issues for the next few years.

"In particular I was concerned at the recent reports of possible closure of cod fishing in the Irish Sea and future cuts in quota allocations for fisheries where cod is taken as a by-catch. This would present huge problems for the Northern Ireland fishing industry. In this context, I welcome Commissioner Fischler's recent announcement that, under certain conditions, he would explore options where these fisheries could continue at a limited level, and his recognition of the potential socio-economic impact of the current situation."

In discussion of possible social measures to assist those individuals and communities affected by stock depletion, Mr Pearson said that the EC had advanced proposals for social measures, and for a further round of decommissioning, as part of a restructuring of European fisheries. These will be subject to consideration as part of the overall review of the Common Fisheries Policy.

Mr Pearson maintained his desire for a "strong, viable fisheries sector" and for a fleet which brings in "high quality fresh fish for the local consumer".

He pledged to work to ensure Northern Ireland sits well in negotiating, at national and European level, for maintaining nephrops and other quota shares in 2003.

(GMcG)