ronnie wrote:The greens don't like us sticking hooks in fish.
Yes, thats true. In most european countries the greens are fervently anti angling. In my opinion their position comes from an inability to open their eyes and see the huge benefits that we anglers give, not only to the economy but also to the species we fish for. Very many species of marine fish around the world have been saved by direct involvement of anglers in their management. Just look at species like redfish and striped bass in the US. Without angler involvement with these species they might not even be on this planet now.
The sad irony is that many anglers feel that they have much in common with the green agenda and yet those directly involved in green politics see us as the enemy.
Lets hope that the decision to recognise anglers in the CFP will give us some part in decision making and a recognition for the vast sums we contribute to the economy.
As for the greens, I don't see them changing their position any time soon. The old line "I've made up my mind, don't bother me with the truth" seems quite appropriate for them.