EU trade sanctions with Russia are hitting South Down fishing and farming industries says South Down MLA John McCallister.
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The herring fishers in South Down should be compensated says John McCallister following blocks to Russian trade.[/caption]
Mr McCallister, Independent Unionist for South Down, has questioned the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development about the negative impact on the local fishing and farming industries resulting from the EU trade sanctions with Russia, and if compensation will be offered to those affected.
In a statement he said: “The market for herring has been significantly and negatively affected by the EU’s trade sanctions with Russia. This is having a damaging effect on license holders under the Mourne Herring Fishery.
“In places like Annalong this will hit fishing families hard. Herring fishing is a key component in many local fishermen’s income and I am concerned that this issue is not being taken seriously.
“I questioned the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Michelle O’Neill MLA, on the potential for a compensation scheme for herring license holders and for others across the Agriculture and Fishing sectors.
“The EU has created a scheme worth 165 million euros to help farmers hit by Russian sanctions over the Ukraine crisis – local fishermen affected by this also deserve support, as do dairy farmers and others.
“In her response the Minister was non-committal on compensation, but did say the issue was high up the Department’s agenda. I intend to follow this up with the Minister to ensure that action is taken.
“Fishing across South Down has been under increasing pressure for decades – it is clear that in this instance the Local Department and the EU need to act.”
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