Thu Oct 17, 2013 9:31 am
Ireland expected to oppose mackerel compromise plan
Updated: 10:36, Thursday, 17 October 2013
EU clashes with Iceland over mackerel quotas
EU ministers hold talks on fisheries fund
A European Commission compromise plan on mackerel fishing, which aims to end a bitter row between the EU, Iceland and the Faroe Islands, is likely to be opposed by Ireland.
The proposed deal on mackerel quotas in the northeast Atlantic will be discussed at a meeting of marine ministers in Luxembourg today.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney has predicted that the talks will be "very tense".
Arriving for the meeting, he accused Iceland and the Faroe Islands of abusing their position by introducing unilateral quotas.
Mr Coveney said the only way there will be a fair result is if EU negotiators drive a hard bargain.
It is understood Ireland's opposition to the deal is supported by at least six other EU member states.
In just a few years, Iceland and the Faroe Islands have unilaterally increased their overall share of mackerel catch in the northeast Atlantic from 5% to 52%.
Ireland has branded this increase as unacceptable, irresponsible and unsustainable.
While the EU has threatened to impose trade sanctions, the European Commission has also been trying to secure a compromise deal.
It is understood this plan involves giving Iceland and the Faroe Islands around 12% each of the future total allowable catch.
Ireland North West MEP Pat the Cope Gallagher has warned this would be, what he termed, an absolute disgrace as Ireland would end-up with a reduced share of mackerel quota.
The Federation of Irish Fishermen has expressed concerns that the €125 million mackerel industry could be sold out by the Commission.
With pressure mounting, it is expected Mr Coveney will forcefully oppose the commission's plan during today's discussions.