Fishing needs a roadmap of recovery - Pat The Cope
Pat the Cope Gallagher, has welcomed the publication of the Mulvey Report, but is calling for a roadmap of recovery and action to be put into place.
Gallagher, who is the Vice-Chairperson of the Oireachtas Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs and Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Fisheries, stressed that the findings of the report need to be used for widespread reforms across the industry.
“I commend the Minister of State for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Timmy Dooley TD, for taking the initiative in commissioning this report and for ensuring its publication on 8 July. The Mulvey Report should be regarded as an important resource and a valuable contribution to the debate on the future of our fishing industry.”
The Cope added, "The publication of this report is an initial step on what must be a long-term recovery strategy for Ireland’s fisheries, aquaculture and seafood processing sectors.
"While it identifies a number of important issues requiring attention, it does not fully reflect much of the evidence presented by stakeholders before the Oireachtas Fisheries and Maritime Committee regarding their relationship with the Department and its agencies.”
Deputy Gallagher noted that many public representatives, particularly those representing coastal communities, have first-hand experience of the challenges facing the sector and the frustrations surrounding decision-making and administration.
“Likewise, the report does not fully capture the realities experienced by many public representatives or the concerns raised during recent appearances by the former Executive Chairperson of the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority before the Committee. Not every reality can be reflected in a published report, but there are important lessons that cannot be ignored.”
He added that, despite its limitations, the report highlights the urgent need for change.
“The strongest message emerging from the report, including its unwritten subtext, is the overwhelming need for a new approach, a renewed focus and a genuine commitment to driving the industry forward.
"The fact that such a report was required in the first place is evidence that all is not well and that fisheries and maritime affairs require urgent attention at policy and administrative levels," said Gallagher.
Deputy Gallagher said that future progress will ultimately depend on political leadership and a willingness to implement meaningful reform.
“Whether it is the Programme for Government 2025, the Mulvey Report or the forthcoming Berkery Report, everything will ultimately depend on political will. Reports alone will not deliver the changes that are needed. What matters is the determination to implement their recommendations and put in place a coherent strategy for recovery and growth," said Gallagher.
Gallagher highlighted how while the Mulvey Report has helpfully identified many of the issues, concerns and structural challenges facing the fisheries, aquaculture and seafood processing sectors.
He is now awaiting the publication of the Berkery Report, which is expected shortly.
"Importantly, that report must go beyond identifying problems and provide clear recommendations on how these issues can be addressed, resolved and implemented in practice. The industry has had enough reports outlining difficulties; what is now required is a roadmap for action, delivery and recovery.”
Deputy Gallagher also called for consideration to be given to the re-establishment of a standalone Department of the Marine.
“I would also welcome the establishment of a standalone Department of the Marine. Given the unprecedented challenges facing our fisheries, aquaculture and seafood sectors, there is a strong case for a dedicated Government department focused solely on marine affairs," said Gallagher.
As Gallagher points out, it's not a new concept. In 1987, Charles Haughey established the Department of the Marine, recognising the strategic importance of Ireland’s maritime resources and coastal communities.
"I had the privilege of serving as Minister of State in that Department alongside Minister Brendan Daly and witnessed first-hand the benefits of having a dedicated focus on marine policy and development.
"As we consider the recommendations of the Mulvey Report and await the publication of the Berkery Report, the re-establishment of a standalone Department of the Marine should form part of the wider discussion on the future governance and direction of Ireland’s maritime sector.”
Concluding, Deputy Gallagher warned that continuing with the status quo is not an option.
“For too long, one constant within the fisheries sector has been the lack of meaningful change. That failure has brought many parts of the industry to a point of near extinction. Reports, by their nature, can only provide a limited perspective.
"If we are serious about rebuilding our fishing communities and safeguarding the future of the sector, that work must begin immediately," said Gallagher.
This article was funded by the Local Democracy Scheme.