South Down MLA Chris Hazzard (Sinn Féin) today welcomed NI Fisheriesxa0Minister Michelle O’Neill securing increased fishing opportunities for the local fleet.
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Hazzard delighted at O’Neill’s success at Brussels fisheries summit.[/caption]Mr Hazzard said:xa0″At the December meeting of the European Fisheries Council, Minister Michelle O’Neill negotiated to secure the best deal possible for the North’s fishing communities.
“A proposal to introduce a 14 per cent reduction in prawn catch was overturned as a result of new scientific assessment and the quota was in fact increased by three per cent.
“That represents a u200e£450,000 boost to the local prawn fishing industry.
“Fishing quotas for deep sea haddock were also held at the same level as last year.
“Plans to cut the number of days the local fleet can spend at sea were also put on hold thanks to the intervention of the Minister.
“These measures will be welcomed by fishing communities in Ardglass, Portavogie and Kilkeel. They are a further indication of Sinn Féin’s commitment to defending and promoting our fishing industry in a sustainable and responsible manner.”
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