A DÁIL think tank is to
explore alternative job creation for Inishowen's
salmon fishermen who forfeited their licences under
a conservation scheme.
Donegal North East T.D., Deputy Joe McHugh said he
had set out a work proposal on the issue for the
Dáil Committee for Communications.
"As a member of the Dáil Committee for
Communications, I have taken an active interest in
the plight of fishermen, and have set out a work
proposal to be discussed by the committee called 'To
examine alternative job creation in the marine
sector for fishermen, both drift and draft net, who
signed up to the Salmon Hardship Scheme," said
Deputy McHugh.
“I intend to work closely with the EU on this
proposal and I am looking for the backing of both
Mary Coughlan and Eamon Ryan. While I acknowledge
that this payment will help the fishermen in the
short-term, I want to see action taken to secure the
long term futures of these fishermen."
He outlined the plan as he expressed his "delight"
that the fishermen operating out of Lough Foyle
would finally receive payment under the Salmon
Hardship Scheme. The payment, which had been
awaiting EU sanction, finally got the go-ahead at
the weekend.
“The fishermen operating out of Lough Foyle have
suffered huge losses over the last number of years
due to the closure of the interceptory fishery
seaward and the reduction of licenses in the Lough.
"It was disgraceful that the Fianna Fáil Government
procrastinated over such an important decision but
it just goes to show what can be done when pressure
is applied on EU officials," added Deputy McHugh. |
