Following a passionate plea from the local fishing community, Plymouth City Council is calling on the Government to recognise that the new fisheries and trade deal with the EU fails to deliver on the promises that were made to the fishing industry.
Last month the local fishing community were invited to come forward and give their thoughts on the impact of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. At a special Scrutiny Committee, local fisherman said that they felt disappointed and that the Government had promised them a better deal.
Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “We have heard from the local fishing community that the Government’s fisheries trade deal is woeful at best. They had their expectations raised throughout the Brexit process. Promises of full and absolute control of our waters and better fishing opportunities.
“However, it seems that these original promises were nothing more than ‘hot air.’ Our fishing community are extremely disappointed.”
At last night’s Cabinet meeting, Members considered the feedback from the Committee and are now calling on the Government to deliver on their original promises, addressing issues such as:
- Ensuring a fairer share of the total allowable catch
- Extending the scope and duration of the compensation scheme to fully cover the costs of the additional burdens placed on the industry
- Ensuring the voice of coastal communities is heard by giving local authorities a statutory role in developing fisheries management plans
- Working with the Marine Stewardship Council to investigate options for potential fisheries improvement schemes and certification of local important stocks.
- Continuing to work with the industry locally, to improve the facilities at Sutton Harbour including a wet fish sales outlet, and to promote marine safety.
- Investing in the workforce of the future by establishing suitable apprenticeship schemes.
- The integration and digitalisation of data systems to support exports and reduce paper admin.
Councillor Evans, added: “Our fishing community have been misled, left with lots more red tape, bureaucracy and paperwork. They feel abandoned. Instead of selling out the fishing industry, we need the Government to sit up, listen and take action.”