THE ESTABLISHMENT of the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority was yesterday welcomed by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Mary Coughlan, as a major step in protecting Irish fish stocks and ensuring the sustainability of the industry.
At the official opening of the authority's headquarters in Clonakilty, Co Cork, Ms Coughlan said she recognised that the establishment of the authority might pose challenges for the fishing industry, but she believed a partnership approach would best serve the industry.
Ms Coughlan pointed to the authority's mission to enforce the legislation fairly and consistently so that the marine fish and shellfish resources from the waters around Ireland were exploited sustainably, while promoting compliance and deterring contraventions of the law.
The authority, which was set up under the Sea Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006, is designed to be independent of both Government and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the exercise of its functions, she said.
It also has a role in ensuring food quality so that fish and seafood harvested in Irish waters may be consumed safely for the long-term benefit of all, said Ms Coughlan, pointing out that a buoyant and growing market for fish and fish products existed throughout the EU.
The authority's chairman, Peter Whelan, said: "Fish stocks must be rebuilt and exploited sustainably to protect the long-term future of our industry and coastal communities dependent on fishing.
"There are hopeful signs of recovery and Irish fishermen stand to gain significantly from any upturn."